SAMSON : The leather in this bracelet from Yaakov Hillel’s Samson collection is almost completely overtaken by 24-karat yellow gold beads, each one hand-finished and polished. The golden beads are crafted into unusual shapes that are reminiscent of those made by the Anatolian tribes of the designer’s native Turkey. The total effect is that of a modern bracelet design with the look of ancient treasure. The bracelet closes with an S-hook clasp.
Although his family has traditionally worked in textiles in their native Turkey, Yaakov says he “eventually decided to use my design experience in a new field and jewelry, so much a part of life in Istanbul, seemed like a natural extension to me." Using techniques that date back to height of the ancient Anatolian culture, Hillel's jewelry is all hand carved, hammered and finished by hand. While his designs are made by the best artisans that can be found in Istanbul, they aren't perfectly symmetrical.
