A few years ago I started collecting figas. The symbol dates back to nearly 8,000 years ago and whether you believe it is an obscene gesture or a talisman that protects from evil, it still is relevant today especially to me. I’ve been collecting them for about three years. ย Throughout this time, I’ve been lucky enough to happen upon some figa “jackpots” where I buy a collection all at once that nearly doubles the size of what I own. This happened first in the very beginning of my collection, when I bought a bunch from James McHone Jewelry. Then it happened recently when I was visiting LA and Excalibur Jewelry had a whole bag of them.
Since the start of my collection, I’ve created its own hashtag #gemgossipfigas which has tracked my growth and expansion of this single obsession. It is neat to look back and see how it came to be. Whenever I post my figas, I automatically get so many questions about what it means and comments about what the symbol suggests.
The other thing I get the most is “where can I buy these?” This is always so hard to answer people because they are vintage and antique, so if I’ve found a few at one store, chances are they won’t be sourced from the same place every time. I have noticed Charmco keeps a pretty steady inventory and has some really unique ones, so I’ve been constantly suggesting them as a source.
I’m proud of this collection and looking forward to see where it goes in the future!
Follow my Pinterest board with all things FIGA!
marsha silver March 18, 2019 at 1:13 pm:
i have a couple for sale that i purchase while living in Brasil during the 1970’s.