Philippa Holland Makes Scary Bugs Look Cool!

Beetle, moth, scorpion: these are the most universally despised bugs, what humans generally cringe at and run from. Not to mention a bat skull! For me, the moth is the worst. You encounter it more than any of the others; when you try to kill it, it's powdery and frightening, but worst of all, it eats your clothes. Snobs' Enemy #1!

But thanks to Philippa Holland's beautifully handmade take on these critters, I actually want them all over me! The Siamese moth twins ($1,010), dusted in 18-karat gold, look like they're about to kiss and the overall shape is reminiscent of a far more popular insect, the butterfly. The result is surprisingly charming.

The scorpion ($3,535) is the creepy-crawliest of these creatures, but oddly enough, the shape of this pendant necklace has the most interest. Thin and delicate with the effect of graceful movement (and black diamonds certainly don't hurt).

The oxidized silver beetle ($1,260), dipped in gold enamel, has fascinating elements. It was done by Bottega Veneta with huge success, so maybe that accounts for my desensitization - I think it's the least gross. In fact, that iridescent shell is gorgeous.

And then there's the bat skull ($1,010). Somehow I feel like a real bat would be better, but Holland makes the macabre beautiful through degrade gold and silver tones. Who knew "gross" could be so engrossing?!