Jewelry is beautiful, but sometimes there's only so much metal and stones can do to bring life to an outfit — or an event.
But if you want something to grow and evolve along with you, consider the jewelry created by Susan McLeary of PassionflowerMade, a jewelry company that specializes in handcrafted wearables that are actually alive.
Using small succulent plants and tiny, plant-friendly and wearable bases, Susan crafts one-of-a-kind growing bracelets, necklaces, rings, and more that add a splash of earthy beauty to any outfit.
It wouldn't be the first time unexpected organic matter has been used in making jewelry, although we think these are bit more cheerful than Victorian mourning jewelry.
The succulents can survive in their jewelry settings for two to four weeks, and when they start to grow out of their bases, they can be transplanted into a pot and enjoyed on a windowsill!
Take a look at some of the pieces Susan has created, which are up for sale on her Etsy shop — and yes, they can be shipped! She also creates items to order, so no two are ever exactly alike.
[H/T: My Modern Met]
Many of Susan's creations are ordered for special occasions, especially weddings. The plants, once transplanted out of their jewelry settings, become perfect little keepsakes of a special day.
Her creations rage from rings and bracelets to statement necklaces that look like whole tiny forests!
And even after the plants are given a new home, the jewelry bases can still be worn, so you actually end up with a pretty plant and a piece of jewelry.
Susan not only handcrafts her pieces, but she also supports a local, family-owned greenhouse when buying her succulents.
She developed this particular craft while working with leading floral designers all over the U.S.
Each piece is carefully handcrafted to not only look gorgeous, but to ensure the safety of the plants, as well. These might be more fragile than other pieces of jewelry, but they're certainly unique!
Susan says that most of her jewelry is used for special occasions, namely weddings, and that they often double as favors and bridesmaids' gifts.
She also provides information on how to properly transplant the succulents, so they can live a long happy life in a pot!
But if you're feeling really crazy, take a look at some of Susan's other floral fashion creations.
These are typically designed for floral design festivals, competitions, and conferences, where floral designers from all over show off their skills and inventions.
After all, wearing a tiny succulent is one thing, but this is a little more involved!
And don't worry, there's something for the menfolk, too.
But even though they seem over-the-top, they let Susan flex her creative muscles and create beautiful, fantastical costumes that look like fairy tales come to life.
