Digby and Iona: Sumptuous Artifacts Found
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 at 10:27AM 
"Escapist luddite" is how Aaron Ruff of Digby and Iona describes his style of jewelry design. Eschewing high technology and preferring traditional, hand methods to create his pieces, Digby and Iona is perhaps the most ecclectic, yet cohesive collection you will find anywhere. Ranging from deer antler rings to moustache necklaces to brass medallions, they seem like old artifacts that you might possibly find in a treasure chest or or while rummaging in the basement of your grandparents home. The handcrafted pieces have a fresh rustic sophistication and the sumptuous grains, bumps, and dimples are not imperfections but a reminder that they couldn't possibly be mass produced.
A graduate of Parsons in Furniture Design, Ruff is completely self-taught in jewelry design but has managed to infuse his taste and style - his stamp - in his work. His mostly unisex pieces have a strong narrative with a unique point of view that is rich in character, texture, and history. "I want my work to be heirloom quality so I try to stay away from subjects that are more trend or topical," explains Ruff. Indeed, his collection contains no leaf motifs and definitely none of those generic hearts charms on a chain.
Currently Digby and Iona sells in over 30 stores across the country including The Market NYC on Saturdays, and internationally, in Canada, Europe, and Australia.
