Hand-casted in the USA, this double sided wax seal necklace features the Latin words PER ASPERA AD ASTRA, which means “Through hardship, to the stars.” This pendant features half the phrase, PER ASPERA (“through hardship”), and a path through mountains with stars in the distance on one side, representing the hardships we must face. On the reverse side it features the other half of the phrase, AD ASTRA (“to the stars”), and the north star in full view, the goal having proven worth the journey.

This motto sometimes appears as AD ASTRA PER ASPERA and though both iterations of the phrase are correct, this one is less common. Other translations include "through adversity/difficulties to the stars" and "our aspirations take us to the stars." ASTRA is the Latin root for "astronomy," ASPERA directly translates to "rough" in English, as in "rough terrain." The English word "exasperate" draws its origins from the Latin ASPERA, and indeed many trials in life prove frustrating. However, this phrase recognizes the truth that in your attempts to achieve great things, you will have to pass through some rocky times on your way to your goals. This jewelry is meant to inspire perseverance so that no matter what the world throws at you, you can relish in the challenge because the stars wait just beyond the struggle.

"Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength." -Arnold Schwarzenegger