Folkloriikka | Simone Toerien
If you go down to the woods today…
Simone Toerien is the artistic creator of Folkloriikka, a dream-like jewellery line. The name is unique, stirring up childlike wonder, dreams inspired by faraway lands and mystical creatures. Folkloriikka is a Finnish word, simply put, “the study of folklore”.
Simone’s creations are inspired by story’s of old, passed intimately through the centuries and through Scandinavian landscapes, snowy peaks and crystal lakes. The venture is a new one, but her pieces all hold an age old wonder and charm.
See what this local had to say to us…
When did you come to Hermanus?
I was born and raised in Hermanus, after living in Cape Town for seven years I moved back.
Why did you decide on coming back to Hermanus?
I returned to Hermanus a year ago to pursue my jewellery design aspirations. Hermanus provided the perfect peaceful, creative environment I needed, free of distractions and completely surrounded by beautiful scenery at every turn.
What made you decide to become a jewellery designer?
I only became interested in jewellery a bit later on in life when I discovered my Grandmother’s sterling silver jewellery she bought in Mexico when she was younger. A whole new world opened up to me when I learnt that jewellery heirlooms didn’t have to be high polished and covered in shiny stones. It grew into a fascination with the history of jewellery and the traditional adornments in different cultures. I love the idea of creating something that will last forever and that each piece will have its own story.
The best part of my job is…
Carving my wax pieces late at night when the whole world is quiet except for the sound of the ocean crashing in the distance.
Hermanus is…
Peace, community and beauty.
I love Hermanus in the…
All year round, stormy seas crashing against the cliffs at Voelklip on a cold misty day are just as beautiful to me as the ocean view around Walker Bay on a perfect, clear sunny day.
If Hermanus was a beautiful necklace it would look like…
I think the pieces by Heidi Walton of Ralph Walton Design encapsulate the feeling of Hermanus. She uses natural stone pebbles she finds along nearby beaches and sets them in sterling silver to create intricate chain necklaces, bracelets and earrings. I think they represent both our ocean and mountain wonderfully.
My favourite jewellery trends are…
My personal favourites are finely crafted pieces that have a tribal or bohemian influence or that are a little whimsical. Jewellery that can tell a story at a glance.
The jewellery trend I dislike the most is…
Costume jewellery knock-offs. I’d rather save up for one special piece that will last a lifetime.
My three favourite jewellery pieces are?
All from my Grandmother’s collection: A silver ring and a broach with an Aztec motif from Mexico and an Art Nouveau silver bracelet she bought in Holland.
What is the most important advice that you could give to a women when it comes to wearing jewellery?
Jewellery should be timeless and personal, find well-made pieces that you identify with and that you will treasure forever.
I wish I knew then what I do now about…
Relaxing. I’ve learnt not to overanalyse or stress too much about things. Don’t give up on your dreams, everything takes time.
My best memories are…
4X4 Road trips through Southern Africa with my family, camping near waterholes surrounded by wildlife at the reserves in Botswana that don’t have fences – Not the most stress-free holiday for my parents but I had the best time!
For more information, visit: Folkloriikka
Contact Simone on: info@folkloriikka.co.za
Don’t give up on your dreams, everything takes time.
More info on the town of Hermanus |