Gilded Memories photo. 4 charms of various stones and metals hang on a gold chain. Credit Simon Cuthbert & TMAG.

In 1895, the General Manager of the Mt Lyell Mining and Railway Company, Robert Carl Sticht, gifted his wife, Marion, a charm necklace. Over time, the 27 unique charms added to the necklace told the couple’s story, following their journey to lutruwita/Tasmania from the United States.

One hundred and twenty eight years on, jeweller Emma Bugg is creating a contemporary necklace as homage to both the original piece and the histories of Queenstown. Embedded with stories of place and people, Emma’s intricate metalwork will provide a glimpse into the past for future generations and visitors alike. Displayed in Penghana, the Sticht family’s historic home, the necklace will take form over the course of the festival as the charms are progressively connected to its chain.

The Unconformity acknowledges the palawa people as the original and traditional custodians of lutruwita/Tasmania. We commit to working respectfully to honour their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to this land.