Kimberly Baker's jewelry has always been a little bit girly and a lotta rock 'n' roll ... but in her newest collection, there's no mistaking that aesthetic. The local designer's edgy line features bunnies and guns, hearts and daggers, and cherry blossoms and grenades.
Baker's influence for this collection reflects the duality of the human condition: Sweetness and innocence are placed in direct juxtaposition with symbols of violence and darkness. There is no clearer example than her "Lolita" dangling charm earrings. The pair is distinctly different–one earring features a heart, cherry blossom, swallow and bunny. The other has a grenade, gun, Maltese cross, "brass" knuckles and dagger.
I'm drawn to the sweeter pieces, especially the three-tiered dove necklace. However, I'm oddly fascinated by the little guns and hand grenades -- they're such perfect tiny charms, but tough. The small, battered heart is sadly sweet, and the phoenix rising necklace offers hope.
Baker's jewelry is available at her website, and also at Nordstrom, Olivine Atelier, Tulip and other boutiques.
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