While I was in Portugal I didn't have the opportunity to visit the north were they have a strong tradition in the art of filigree jewelry. But even in Lisbon the pride of this craft was overflowing. The stunning art of Portuguese filigree has remained important over the years and is a distinct symbol of the northern regions of Gondomar, Viana do Castelo and Póvoa do Lanhoso.Every piece due to therigor of creation, assembly and finishing requires a large amount ofmanual labor.

In Portugal, filigree is an essential accessory and a mark of social distinction. It is mostly used in special events such as weddings or popular festivals. The pieces we feature were made in Viana do Castelo by skilled artisans. In this regiona bride wears not only an astonishing pair of the iconic sterling silver "Queen Earrings" (rumored to have been gifted to Queen Maria II during her visit to Viana and said to bringfertility to the wearer ) but also two or more gold necklaces around her neck and at least one heart-shaped pendant.

**The additional photos are of Lisbon and the charmingshop where I curated pieces like these in the Chiado neighborhood in the center of Lisbon. My favorite of the three is the pictureof the grandson, Lawrence, his grandpa, Alberto, and me in the 94 year old shop owned by Alberto and originally opened by his father. Alberto is hoping Lawrence will take over the shop one day, but Lawrence seems less keen on the idea. :)