Get your gonk on! Why this trend isn’t going anywhere
Hand carved sterling silver gonk charm necklaces
If you’ve spotted gonks popping up everywhere lately, you’re not imagining it—they’ve really taken off in the last few years! These little guys have become a serious trend, sneaking into everything from home décor to fashion and jewellery. But what’s the deal with gonks, where did they come from, and why are they here to stay? Let’s have a proper look at these charming little creatures.
So, What Exactly Are Gonks?
Think of them as quirky little gnomes or elves, usually with big hats, fluffy beards, and an oversized nose. (What’s not to love, right?) They’re rooted in Scandinavian folklore and were believed to bring good luck and protect homes from bad spirits. Who wouldn’t want a gonk keeping watch over their house (and wardrobe!)?
Now, while they’re a staple of Christmas decorations in the UK, it’s safe to say gonks have taken on a life of their own and are sticking around all year. I personally love gonks (obvs) and each year more of them make an appearance around my own house as we get towards the end of the year!
A Bit of Gonk History
The word "gonk" actually comes from ‘gnomus’, the root of ‘gnome’. These little guys have evolved from their Nordic origins, but they still carry the title of good luck charms. They represent joy, warmth, and comfort—basically, they’re here to make us smile!
The first written mention of gonks goes back to the 1600s, but some believe they’ve been around since the 13th century! Originally from Scandinavian folklore, these tiny bearded creatures—known as ‘tomte’ were the household guardians, keeping watch over families, farms, and animals.
While they were known for bringing good luck, gonks could be a bit cheeky if families didn’t treat them well. Forget to leave them food or create a cozy home, and they might just play a trick or two!
As Christmas traditions grew in Scandinavia, gonks started appearing wearing festive outfits, merging old folklore with modern holiday cheer. Though they began as winter figures, their playful charm has made them beloved year-round.
Gonk charm hoop earrings
Each one handmade with recycled sterling silver.
Gonks: Not Just for Christmas Anymore
In the last few years, gonks have become a must- have home accessory for Christmas, but as the seasons move on through the year, people have become low-key obsessed with making them a feature at other times too! Gonks have been popping up for valentines day, with hearts and flowers, as cushions for home decor, or dressed in halloween outfits in Autumn!
Here at Cocobelle, I’ve fully embraced the gonk trend with my gonk Necklaces and hoop earrings. Each one is handmade from recycled silver (because sustainability matters) and perfectly captures the quirky charm of these little characters. My gonk Necklaces even come with a personalised birth/ adoption certificate, so you can make it a really personal gift!
Whether you’re wearing a gonk around your neck or displaying one at home, they’re not just cute—they’re uplifting. They remind us to find joy in the little things, and that’s a message we can all get behind, right?
