OllieWear: Tokens of Inspiration

Jewelry shouldn’t be worn strictly for fashion’s sake, says artist Ollie H. Cox Jr.

“My belief is that it should have meaning and inspire an attitude,” said the ever-optimistic Cox, who sat ringside at his trunk show Sunday at Elements in the Irvine Marketplace.

Cox has created meaningful adornments for OllieWear, a brand of “positive and spiritually-based” sterling silver jewelry.

His wearable art is distinguished by the brushed finish to the metal that resembles the enduring industrial quality of stainless steel, as well as the cryptic symbols engraved on it. His signature rectangular links contain simple symbols (“Ollie Speak”) that if translated to English would convey optimistic messages such as “let good flow,” “stay focused” and “life’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.”

The messages, he says, appeal to his clientele, who range from business executives to bohemians.

In addition to his accessories--which include earrings, rings, pendants, bracelets, cuff links and money clips--his positive “language” also decorates his newest collection of pieces with semi-precious stones. The line is called Paradise because, Cox says, he wants it known that no matter what your life is like, it’s paradise.

“Every time I design, a meaning comes with it,” says Cox of his 2-year-old venture.

OllieWear is also available in 14-karat gold by special order, but Cox says he prefers silver because of its availability, price and aesthetic character.

His jewelry sells for $50 to $600.

The complete silver collection is at Elements, at 4255 Campus Drive in Irvine, (714) 854-3690, through the end of December.