Worn in Time
Danielle
AN INTERVIEW DISCUSSING JEWELRY AS SECOND SKIN
Worn in Time is a celebration of the stories our pieces gather as they’re lived in and loved. With every intimate ritual or daily routine, Prounis jewels are transformed with the wearer’s personal signature, imbuing each piece with something invaluable: true character.
We spoke with our cherished collectors about their treasured ephemera, memories, and beloved Prounis pieces.
Can you tell us the story behind your first Prounis piece?
My first Prounis pieces were a pair of Trade Rings given to me by my husband for our 4th/1st anniversary (we married on leap day). I had been obsessed with the Trade rings since I first discovered Prounis and asked for them as my gift. We then visited Jean on a trip to NYC, and I fell even more deeply in love with the brand, Jean, and its studio – I highly recommend a visit to the studio. My Trade Rings are my everywhere, every day, ride-or-dies; I travel, eat, sleep, paint, and garden in them.
What do you consider when building your jewelry collection?
It’s a very intuitive process that often surprises me. I almost find myself saying, “Hello, where have you been?” I tend to choose pieces that I have an instinctive connection to. I also shy away from anything too delicate because I’m hard on my jewelry.
“My Trade Rings are my everywhere, every day, ride-or-dies; I travel, eat, sleep, paint, and garden in them.”
Fig 2. Trade Ring I, Trade Ring II, Garnet Ruin Ring, and Small Granulated Boat-Shaped Hoop Earrings. Photography by Lili Jamail.
What is another object or item you collect?
Marble mortars and pestles from Spain, Italy, and France are an obsession. They each have so many stories to tell, such history: the sauces made, the herbs ground, and the alchemy they facilitate. I’m pretty into vessels of any kind, but these I collect, and you can find them all over our home for their intended cooking purpose, but also as bowls for all sorts of objects and snacks.
How do you store your jewelry?
Bigger pieces get stashed in a Smythson jewelry case that travels with me.
Fig 5. Green Tourmaline Double Link Chain. Photography by Lili Jamail.
Fig 3. Danielle's home. Photography by Lili Jamail.
“Both of my grandmothers slept in their gold jewelry... I see them in my mind's eye, and I can’t separate them from their jewelry.”
Are there any traditions that shape your connection to jewelry?
Both of my grandmothers slept in their gold jewelry...I see them in my mind's eye, and I can’t separate them from their jewelry. Never really thought of it, but clearly that’s something I inherited from them.
What is the best souvenir you’ve ever collected? Where did you find it, and why is it precious to you?
I always bring back stones from my travels. They mark each day, each ‘moment’– sometimes just a feeling. I’m particularly fond of large flat stones; I use them as spoon rests. Some of my favorites are from beaches in Japan and Greece.
Fig 4. Danielle at home. Photography by Lili Jamail.
If your jewlery could talk, what would it say about you?
Man, she’s really drawn to warm, weathered gold and items that either feel ancient or are ancient.
Do you have any rituals when putting on your jewelry?
I am a person of ritual, but my everyday jewelry is really a roadmap of my travels and my history; it’s part of me like a tattoo. I never really take my jewelry off; it’s sort of fused on my body. When I’m getting dressed, I select my larger pieces according to my mood, their scale, or the meaning they evoke for me.
Which pieces are on your wishlist?
I’m craving antique coral these days, and I’m fixated on having it set as a pinky ring in either a Roz or Gaea setting. I’m also obsessed with the Large Granulated Boat-Shaped Hoop Earrings.
Fig 6. Collected souvenirs at home. Photography by Lili Jamail.
Roberto
AN INTERVIEW DISCUSSING CONNECTION AND MEANINGFUL ADORNMENT
Fig 2. Ode Ring, Blue Sapphire Roz Ring, and Paperlink Chain Bracelet. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Worn in Time is a celebration of the stories our pieces gather as they’re lived in and loved. With every intimate ritual or daily routine, Prounis jewels are transformed with the wearer’s personal signature, imbuing each piece with something invaluable: true character.
We spoke with our cherished collectors about their treasured ephemera, memories, and beloved Prounis pieces.
Can you tell us the story behind your first Prounis piece?
My first Prounis piece was actually gifted to me by my best friend and business partner, Salima Boufelfel. She chose the Trade Bangle and had my initials engraved on it, reading RWC. I cherish it deeply; it feels like a symbol of our infinite connection and the journey we’ve shared together.
Do you have any rituals when putting on your jewelry?
I have a few Prounis pieces, like my 10mm Hinged Hoop and Hook Earrings, that are part of my daily uniform. It feels so integrated into who I am that I don’t even think about putting it on anymore. Then I have pieces I bring out when I’m heading somewhere special or going on a date, especially my Blue Sapphire Roz Ring. It’s a great conversation starter and always makes me feel a little more intentional.
“I have a few Prounis pieces that are part of my daily uniform.”
Fig 2. Ode Ring, Blue Sapphire Roz Ring, and Paperlink Chain Bracelet. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
What is another object or item you collect?
I love collecting natural oils, scents, and traditional or cultural artifacts tied to the places I visit. The oils I gravitate toward often come from monasteries, herb shops, or ashrams. There’s a monastery in Hydra you hike up to, and the nuns make the most beautiful oils. Back home, the Tucson Herb Shop makes an oil from the Sonoran Desert creosote bush that transports me instantly. I recently visited an ashram in Germany for a blessing, and they too had a signature oil. Scent, to me, is incredibly powerful, deeply sensory, and instantly connective to memory, place, and self.
How do you store your jewelry?
I store my jewelry in a small box that
belonged to my grandmother. It was a gift from my uncle to her, made out of popsicle sticks with her name, Lydia, written across the top in script. It’s sweet, humble, and full of history, exactly where I want to keep pieces that mean something to me.
“My connection to jewelry always leads me back to my grandmother...I think of her and how she loved every piece she wore.”
Fig 3. Framed photo of Roberto's grandmother. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Are there any traditions that shape your connection to jewelry?
My connection to jewelry always leads me back to my grandmother. She didn’t come from much, coming from Sonora, Mexico. She collected jewelry along the way and wore it constantly. I remember her falling asleep adorned—earrings, necklace, rings—and it never bothered her. It felt like she was dreaming inside her glamour. I carry that tradition with me; when I put on jewelry, I think of her and how she loved every piece she wore.
What is the best souvenir you’ve ever collected? Where did you find it, and why is it precious to you?
One souvenir that stands out is from when I hiked the Inca Trail. Local artisans sold small hand-carved objects shaped like animals or body parts. I have a hand carved out of lava rock that represents strength and protection from evil spirits. These small objects also remind me of my friend Alma Allen, who made carvings early in his career, selling in Soho, NYC. It feels like a circle of creativity and memory.
Fig 4. Roberto at home. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Fig 5. Nona Incense Holder. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
“I think about purpose and feeling. At the end of the day, we don’t need anything, but jewelry has the power to shift how we feel and how we move through the world.”
If your jewelry could talk, what would it say about you?
It would say that I’m thoughtful and intentional, that everything I choose has meaning behind it.
What do you consider when building your jewelry collection?
I think about purpose and feeling. At the end of the day, we don’t need anything, but jewelry has the power to shift how we feel and how we move through the world. Like clothing, jewelry should never wear you. It should always feel personal, soulful, and free from ego.
Fig 6. Blue Sapphire Roz Ring and Paperlink Chain Bracelet. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
LUCIA & LAUREN
AN INTERVIEW EXPLORING THE VALUE AND SENTIMENT OF MATRILINEAL HEIRLOOMS
Fig 1. Lucia and Lauren at home. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Can you tell us the story behind your first Prounis piece?
Lauren: I fell in love with Prounis when I met Jean in 2016. She was covered in warm, worn, 22K gold at a dive bar. I went to her studio the following week to pick out my first treasure. She made me a pinky Roz ring with a garnet. She made it herself and engraved it by hand. I hold it very near.
Lucia: Lauren bought me my first piece! A pair of South Sea Pearl Hoop and Hook Earrings. I was hooked.
Do you have any rituals when putting on your jewelry?
Lauren: Always rings first, then necklace, earrings last. Bracelets always stay the same, sometimes a watch.
Lucia: When I’m putting my jewelry on, I always recall when I purchased the piece, if it was a gift, who gave it to me, where I was, if I was traveling, etc.
“All my jewelry is either passed down, a gift from a loved one, or made by a loved one. I love wearing pieces now that I remember my mom wearing when I was a little girl."
Fig 2. Custom Emerald Double Link Chain. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
What is another object or item you collect?
Lauren: Vintage Saint Christopher medallions. My mom put one on me as a little girl, and I’ve worn one almost every day since.
Lucia: Majolica leaves: I buy one whenever I see one! And Limoges boxes.
How do you store your jewelry?
Lauren: Lots of tiny inconvenient bags in a filing cabinet. It’s sort of fun because I never know what I am going to come across when I’m looking for something. Sometimes, it's a ring from high school or a piece of turquoise from my grandma.
Lucia: My storage is in process! Now I have separate trays for particular occasions. It’s evolving.
"My collection says about me: I’m sentimental! It’s not always the most expensive piece, but the connection to it, by way of a memory of a trip, or who gifted it to me."
Fig 3. Trio Nona Earrings, Turquoise Strand With Fibula Clasp, Solo Loop-in Loop Chain, Emerald Block Pendant, Small Solo Loop-in-Loop Chain Bracelet with Fibula Clasp, Spessartite Garnet Roz Ring, Emerald Ruin Ring, Custom Baby Double Link ID Bracelet. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Are there any traditions that shape your connection to jewelry?
Lauren: All my jewelry is either passed down, a gift from a loved one, or made by a loved one. I love wearing pieces now that I remember my mom wearing when I was a little girl.
Lucia: I wore my grandmother's cameo pin, which was her grandmother's, on my wedding day. My daughter also wore it on her wedding day. She also wore a bracelet that my grandmother gave me.
What is the best souvenir you’ve ever collected? Where did you find it, and why is it precious to you?
Lauren: A green piece of seaglass my daughter found on the beach with my mom. Every time she sees it, she holds it to her heart and says, “Nana.”
Lucia: Seashells, sea glass, and heart-shaped rocks.
Fig 4. Collected Ceramics at home. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
"I have two granddaughters now to consider. So, along with my taste and my daughter’s taste, I try to imagine pieces they may like as they grow up."
Fig 5. Golden Citrine, Roman Glass, and Jasper Amphora Earrings, Custom Emerald Double Link Chain, Nona Necklace with Fibula Clasp. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
If your jewelry could talk, what would it say about you?
Lauren: Clean me.
Lucia: My collection says about me: I’m sentimental! It’s not always the most expensive piece, but the connection to it, by way of a memory of a trip, or who gifted it to me.
What do you consider when building your jewelry collection?
Lauren: Things that are timeless that I’ll want to wear when I am 80. Pieces that my daughter can wear.
Lucia: I have two granddaughters now to consider. So, along with my taste and my daughter’s taste, I try to imagine pieces they may like as they grow up, along with my niece, Olivia.
Fig 6. Nona Bracelet with Fibula Clasp, Solo Loop-in-Loop Chain Bracelet, Duo Loop-in-Loop Chain Bracelet with Fibula Clasp, Keshi Pearl Paperlink Chain Bracelet, Nona Cigar Band, Rose Tourmaline Medium Nauta Ring, Emerald Cut Blue Sapphire Roz Ring. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
AYSHA
AN INTERVIEW DISCUSSING JEWELRY AS SOMATIC OBJECT
Fig 1. Aysha at home. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Can you tell us the story behind your first Prounis piece?
I purchased my first two pieces at the same time, about seven years ago. I wanted to start investing in pieces that I loved, and I would notice if I didn't feel them on my body. I went to a lot of jewelry stores. I reached out to Jean and made an appointment. I was only looking for a ring, but I ended up getting a necklace as well.
Do you have any sentiments when putting on your jewelry?
I feel my appreciation for the pieces that I invested in keeps growing. I love all the imperfections and life that shows on them now.
“I wanted to start investing in pieces that I loved, and I would notice if I didn't feel them on my body."
Fig 2. Mango Moonstone Gaea Roz Ring, Trade Ring I. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
What is another object or item you collect?
I love a good jacket. You can roll out of bed looking crazy, but if you throw on a nice jacket, it doesn’t matter.
How do you store your jewelry?
I put my everyday jewelry in a dish I made at one of those pottery painting places.
"My mom and I love going to antique stores. I bought my first pair of expensive earrings with her from an antique jeweler. Maybe that’s why I love jewelry that looks like it's always been here."
Fig 3. Duo Loop-in Loop Chain with Fibula Clasp, Chalcedony Large Fan Pendant. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Are there any traditions that shape your relationship to jewelry?
My parents are dental technicians, so they have all the equipment to make jewelry. My dad is Jamaican, so he made some traditional bangles for the family. I’ve had mine since I was a teenager. He also helped make a necklace I designed for myself in college.
My mom and I love going to antique stores. I bought my first pair of expensive earrings with her from an antique jeweler. Maybe that’s why I love jewelry that looks like it's always been here.
What is the best souvenir you’ve ever collected? Where did you find it, and why is it precious to you?
I have a large lava rock from Guatemala. It was a memorable trip with great friends. I love and appreciate the rock because it reminds me of the trip and how beautiful the country is.
"You put jewelry on at the top of the day, so the mood needs to be up. If I'm not smiling, I don't want it. And it needs to go with everything cause my clothing style can take many turns."
Fig 4. Mango Moonstone Gaea Roz Ring, Trade Ring I. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
What do you consider when building your jewelry collection?
I always pay attention to how I feel when I’m trying it on. You put jewelry on at the top of the day, so the mood needs to be up. If I'm not smiling, I don't want it. And it needs to go with everything cause my clothing style can take many turns.
If your jewelry could talk, what would it say about you?
Seems like you're having a good time.
Fig 5. Duo Loop-in Loop Chain with Fibula Clasp, Chalcedony Large Fan Pendant. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
GINGER AND GRIFFIN
AN INTERVIEW EXPLORING OBJECT, UNION, AND TIME
FIG 1. GINGER & GRIFFIN AT HOME. PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA JENKINSON.
Can you tell us the story behind your first Prounis piece?
Ginger: I was already a fan of Prounis when we discussed getting engaged in December 2024. I had saved the Green Tourmaline Calda Ring on my moodboard, and I was continually drawn to it when I imagined my “dream ring”. We met with the Prounis team at the beginning of 2024, and upon seeing the Calda ring in person, I knew I wanted to implement the silhouette if we could find its perfect diamond match. The timing of the meeting was kismet, as the team was about to travel to the Tucson Gem Show. It took only one iPhone photo of a stunning antique oval diamond Jean had found to know it was the centerpiece for my Calda ring.
Do you have any rituals when putting on your jewelry?
Ginger: Putting my Prounis ring on is the last step that makes me feel ready to go out the door. The weight of the 22K gold is a special reminder of the importance of the piece.
Griffin: I start nearly every day at jiu-jitsu practice, which means taking off my jewelry when I am not at home. A few years ago, I lost a gold chain that I purchased for myself in this shuffle. Though I mourn the loss, it facilitated a change in my mindset. I slow down, and now there is a moment of mindfulness when the jewelry comes off and goes back on. This pause is a ritual and almost feels like a brief meditation.
"I hope to be with my pieces forever so that I can admire them as they change."
Fig 2. Ginger's Custom Vow Diamond Calda Ring. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
What is another object or item you collect?
Ginger: I cherish my collection of vintage Nintendo games and consoles. I still love playing so much, and the nostalgic, early-2000s art styles and aesthetics really inspire me.
Griffin: I am collecting a bodysuit of tattoos from a shop in Brooklyn called the Smith Street Rod and Gun Club. I've always loved the idea of adorning myself; it is my armor. I also love the loyalty and commitment to one shop. It seems a bit obsessive, but I've learned so much doing it this way, and it really feels like a collection. Over the years, those guys have taken such great care of me. Jewelry feels so similar to me, and I cherish our growing connection with everyone at Prounis.
How do you store your jewelry?
Ginger: I store my engagement ring in her beautiful Prounis ring box, of course! Some lesser-used jewelry I store in a flower-shaped bento box I thrifted when I first moved to NYC. My more frequently worn jewelry I store in two wooden boxes on my windowsill that originally held ceramic sake cups we purchased in Kyoto.
Griffin: I store my jewelry in the elegant green pouch from Prounis. I am neurotic about it; if the jewelry comes off, it is going in the pouch. There is even an AirTag in there.
"I wanted my engagement ring to be reminiscent of the Ancient Greek and Roman pieces at The Met."
Fig 3. Duo Loop-in Loop Chain with Fibula Clasp, Diamond Ode Pendant. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.
Are there any traditions that shape your connection to jewelry?
Ginger: When I visit museums, I am on the lookout for a good jewelry exhibit. Or I am taking close-up, detailed photos of jewelry on the subjects of fine artwork. I wanted my engagement ring to be reminiscent of the Ancient Greek and Roman pieces at the Met. In addition, in my past career as a fine jewelry publicist, I was exposed to many beautiful pieces and designers that expanded and refined my taste in jewelry.
What is the best souvenir you’ve ever collected? Where did you find it, and why is it precious to you?
Ginger and Griffin: A blue, glittery Dolphin magnet we got from a cheesy beach store in Emerald Isle, NC! It was the first souvenir magnet we purchased on a trip taken together early in our relationship. Our fridge is covered in souvenir magazines that we’ve collected from all around the world!
Fig 4. Ginger's Custom Diamond Calda Vow Ring. Illustration by Lily Arzt.
If your jewelry could talk, what would it say about you?
Ginger: In another life, I was either an ancient Noble Lady or Lizzie McGuire.
Griffin: None or a ton.
What do you consider when building your jewelry collection?
Ginger: My everyday jewelry collection is small, I don’t really interchange my pieces, and usually wear the same earrings and bracelet on usual occasions. It’s pretty cliche, but to get into my jewelry collection, it has to be timeless but also unique. My wardrobe is pretty bold, so I’m all about less is more in terms of jewelry, but what I am wearing is impactful.
Griffin: I hope to be with the items forever so that I can admire them as they change.
"Putting my Prounis ring on is the last step that makes me feel ready to go out the door."
Fig 5. Ginger's Custom Diamond Calda Vow Ring. Photography by Emma Jenkinson.