Hey, you know what’s better than a dozen roses? VIBRANIUM TALONS.
The latest collaboration between Marvel and geek-centric fine jewelry maker RockLove is all about Black Panther. While the collection is timed to coincide with the movie’s release, it’s also conveniently available for Valentine’s Day—and it might actually make Valentine’s Day cool again.
I don’t know about you, but I’m the kind of person who wants talon finger armor much more than a diamond. One is eye-catching and conversation-starting (and potentially useful when fighting supervillains), and the other is not.
RockLove’s jewelry is always high-quality and I own several pieces myself (full disclosure: I know designer/owner Allison Cimino). Allison apparently got to undertake the kind of clandestine Marvel mission many of us dream about, entrusted with Black Panther secrets so that she could design these pieces in advance:
As a special project with Marvel Studios, top secret photos of the original Kimoyo Bracelet props were shared with RockLove Jewelry so that designer Allison Cimino could sculpt a screen-accurate replica.
The Kimoyo Bracelets are particularly awesome because they give us an advance look at how Wakandan culture and tech from the comics is being interpreted for the big screen—and wow do I now want to see these bracelets in action:
Kimoyo Beads are pieces of advanced communication technology adapted by the Wakandans from vibranium. The Prime Bead provides a lifetime worth of medical knowledge and is given to the individual at birth. Additional beads are added, serving various digital purposes. “Kimoyo” is Bantu for “of the Spirit.”
RockLove’s designs were approved by Black Panther costume designer Ruth Elaine Carter, at whose feet we worship. As Allison explains:
Black Panther is unique in many ways, and it was essential to approach designing merchandise with awareness and respect. The costumes and jewelry are not merely fantasy but an homage to authentic African culture and heritage.
I shared my designs with legendary Black Panther costume designer, Ruth Elaine Carter, to ensure I was representing her vision of the Wakanda.
My favorite piece is the Black Panther talon necklace that’s inspired by T’Challa’s suit. I feel like this could be worn anywhere—check out how well it pairs with both a going-out look and a going-to-the-gym look.
RockLove partnered with Robin Warren of Geek Girl Strong for the photos that accompany the collection, so you can see exactly how the jewelry will look on an actual human person.
I’m not here to tell you what you absolutely should get the geek in your life for Valentine’s Day (or maybe just to celebrate the movie), but I will tell you that flowers are expensive and wither and die, and it feels like Black Panther-inspired talon finger armor is really a much better way to tell someone that you love them.
(via RockLove Jewelry, images: RockLove/Marvel)
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