The Tenderness She Carries — Handmade Bag Jewelry

The Tenderness She Carries was inspired by my sister, an emergency-room physician whose empathy is as remarkable as her intelligence and strength. She chose the first one I made while navigating a deeply painful season in her own life. This piece honors the women who have worked, sacrificed, cared, and built—and who are reclaiming what belongs to them, including their peace.

Large goat-bone beads sourced from Africa give this piece its clean, sculptural silhouette. They are paired with African “gold” spacers, a vintage resin loop, and a strawberry quartz heart pendant—a stone associated with love, emotional healing, and a heart that remains open without surrendering its boundaries.

Part of Carried Stories: Adornment for the Things We Carry, a collection inspired by everything women carry through life—both seen and unseen.

Materials

• Large goat-bone beads sourced from Africa
• Strawberry quartz heart pendant
• African “gold” beads and spacers
• Vintage resin loop
• Gold-tone clasp and hardware
• Durable hand-knotted cord
• Michaela Corning signature charm

Details

• Handmade in Seattle
• Bold, sculptural silhouette
• Limited small-batch design
• Clips onto handbags, totes, backpacks, belt loops, and key rings

Because the bone and stone are natural materials, each piece will show slight differences in color, texture, markings, and shape. These variations are part of its character and make every one distinct.

Care

Avoid prolonged exposure to water, perfume, oils, and harsh cleaning products. Handle the natural bone and stone components with care. Store flat or hang from the clasp when not in use.

Adornment for the things we carry—and for the tenderness no one has the right to exploit.