Revealing The Unseen

I've had this petite-sized jewellery box since I had my daughter 5 years ago. It consists of a delicate gold chain, a beautifully crafted gold pendant, and a pair of elegant gold earrings embellished with fine-drawn lines. What makes this set stand out is that it's my first asset in gold. It was also my mother's, which was gifted to her by her mother when I was born.

I have never been one to accessorise with jewellery because I don't like how it feels rubbing against my skin or piercing through my ear lobes. Somehow, my mom wasn't concerned if I would wear this gold set as she passed it down to me anyway. Although she didn't say it, I see this jewellery set as an embodiment of motherhood.

Moreso, given the circumstances surrounding how it's been handed down, I'll say it's also a rite of passage signifying the transition from girlhood to womanhood. A time that can also be seen as a new beginning that ushers in new responsibilities which often come with profound emotional weight.

The day that my mother entrusted me with this jewellery set, she said to me, "You are now a woman, and as such, when you dress for certain occasions, you should adorn yourself with gold jewellery. Just so you know, it will elevate your beauty as gold signifies maturity."

In many African cultures, gold jewellery indicates class, prestige and power such that whoever wears it experiences a great deal of respect.

Unfortunately, I do not resonate with such a mindset. Despite knowing there have been occasions where it would have complemented my attire beautifully, I have never worn this jewellery set until today.

Severally, I have felt guilty holding on to this beautiful piece. I know it's a shame that instead of it to be worn and admired, it's somewhere hidden. Honestly, there were times that I tried to convince myself that having this tucked away in my box of clothing did not violate my commitment to minimalism and decluttering.

One time, my sister stumbled upon it while going through my box of clothing as she needed an outfit for a family dinner. Immediately she spotted this piece, she begged to wear it for the occasion but I vehemently refused.

While I stood my ground on not letting her wear it, I found myself caught up in the middle between my desire to protect this priceless possession of mine and the joy that my sister would derive from wearing it.

After a brief deliberation, I refused my sister which led to her being offended. She did not hesitate before expressing her grievances. According to my sister, it was greedy of me holding on to what I do not use and, at the same time, not letting someone else have it.

Even my mother had thought I did not like the set as much probably that's why I have it hidden in my clothing. But the thing is, this jewellery set is the closest I have ever connected to my Grandma. She passed away when I was barely 3 months old and I almost have no memory of her. Well, except the ones told to me by my mother, who informed me how much I was loved.

Again, the thought that she once had this jewellery on sparked a kind of closure, having it in my possession. That being said, the significance of this gold set is one that I cherish greatly because it goes beyond aesthetics. This is not just a symbol of motherhood but a link to the lineage of women before me.

This jewellery box has bestowed me with a deep sense of responsibility because I have planned to pass this treasured piece to my daughter when she reaches motherhood. I hope she cherishes it and wears it with pride in a way I have never managed to.

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All images are mine