Wild Life Subdued

Animals are a recurrent theme in many dramatic jewelry designs. Their magnetism is unmistakable, and they beckon with the call of the wild. Nothing new, jewelry lovers have embraced the wild side in adornment for centuries.

Ancient Etruscans, Romans, Egyptians, even prim and proper Victorians had a yen to connect with their primitive alter ego by including snakes, leopards, tigers even exotic bugs (those wacky Victorians) in their favorite jewelry.

A more contemporary take on this wild animal love is from Miriam Salat who figured out how to draw the best of the best from vintage jewelry components into a modern sensibility to thrill trend-setting jewelry fans. Enjoy the view--no cage required.

Lion Head Cuff by Miriam Salat: Retail $1,835