Rijeka's 'morčić': A symbol of identity crafted by the last artisan's golden hands

The "morčić," a traditional gold filigree pendant, is more than just jewelry; it is a symbol of Rijeka's identity, cultural heritage, and unique way of life. This intricate craft, present in Rijeka since at least the 18th century, has been passed down through generations, holding significant meaning for local families.

Families in Rijeka, particularly grandmothers, often proudly display and preserve gold earrings featuring morčići, intending to pass them on to their children or grandchildren. The tradition underscores the deep connection between the city's inhabitants and their historical craftsmanship.

One artisan recounted a demanding period where he and his father had only ten days to create 50 morčić brooches, working with minimal sleep and even losing vision for a night due to the intense labor. This anecdote illustrates the dedication and skill involved in preserving this unique artisanal practice, which remains an inseparable part of Rijeka's tradition.

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One day, my father and I had only ten days to make 50 brooches with morčićs. I slept only two hours a day and lost my vision one night.