Oregon based Tera of MolecularMotifs is a studio artist and trained teacher who"focused on teaching science through the arts" . She explains her interest and vocation : "I was born with the mind of a scientist, the hands of an engineer and the eye of an artist."
"After many years of teaching art , I decided to focus my energy on creating jewelry inspired by my art science lessons. I took a few casting classes, did an apprenticeship with a master jeweler and after some time and patience, Molecular Motifs was born!"
That duality is seen in her varied collection. I've selected just the molecular ones to feature here. What I like about Tera's work is the scientific information she shares with her creations.
You do not have to be a scientist to appreciate any of them. For example, coffee and chocolate lovers need not advertise their addictions quite so openly!
Cat lovers can enjoy the nepetalactone molecule pendant necklace. This active ingredient found in the catnip (Nepeta cataria) plant.
Tera got it right on several counts with her resveratrol molecule pendant necklace. Resveratrol is a natural substance is found in some plants like blueberries and the skin of grapes, hence her nod to wine lovers. There is no significant evidence to show that resveratrol is anti-aging. But I agree with her, if moderate wine consumption helps you relax, it can only be beneficial!
The following three pendants are great for Mother's Day gifts or for new mothers! That is because they represent hormones involved in pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. Progesterone has many important functions in the body including the menstrual cycle as well as in pregnancy.
Oxytocin initiates uterine contractions during childbirth and is involved in shrinking the uterus after delivery. During breastfeeding, the infant stimulates the release of oxytocin which in turn triggers milk release. It also promotes mother-child bonding which is why it is sometimes called the "cuddle" hormone.
Prolactin has many functions including telling the body to make milk.
Prolactin pendant necklace |
Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is an important neurotransmitter - a chemical which nerve cells produce for communication. It regulates many bodily functions - moods, digestion, sleep and so on. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression. That is why it is nicknamed the "happy chemical" as it is associated with happiness and well-being.
(NB Chemicals can be natural or artificially produced.)
Dopamine is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter with many roles in the brain and body. Popularly known as the chemical of pleasure, what it does is influence the motivational part -the seeking of pleasure - of reward-motivational behavior. It also plays an important part in movement. Parkinson's Disease, characterized by muscle rigidity, tremors, changes in speech and gait, develops when the dopamine producing cells in the brain die.
Tera's lidocaine molecule is perfect of dentists! That is because it is a local anesthetic, one which dentists often use to numb and block pain in the mouth.
There are lots more to explore in her store! Tera is offering a special discount for readers. Use SCIENCE2020 for 20% off all orders of $25 or more.
Before You Go:
- Jewelry Celebrating 8 Women in Science
- Beaded Fullerenes : 3D Molecular Structures
- Science Inspired Metal Clay Jewelry by NBDesigns
Disclosure
This blog may contain affiliate links. I do receive a small fee for any products purchased through affiliate links. This goes towards the support of this blog and to provide resource information to readers. The opinions expressed are solely my own. They would be the same whether or not I receive any compensation.
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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM
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Absolutely awesome!
ReplyDeleteI came across molecular motifs when I was looking for research on serotonin and dopamine based jewellery. There are several brands that make them, but MM's variety impressed me. It would be interesting to know more about their process.
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