Paltscho became famous far beyond the borders of Austria for their carved lapidary jewellery, in particular, high-quality flower brooches made of rock crystal, rose quartz, amethyst and agate. Link for more information about Paltscho. Link to a similar jewel.

For the Japanese flowers and their meanings are interwoven in their way of life. Hanakotoba (花言葉) is the Japanese form of the language of flowers. The cherry blossom (桜) Sakura symbolises the brilliance, fragility and transience of life and every April the short but exuberant bloom of the cherry blossom is much celebrated. Link for more info.

LAPADA’s ‘Object of the Week’