Dangle Earrings with Hand-Painted Ceramic Hearts, "Cobalt Hearts"

Update (August, 2019)

I've been perfecting handmade jewelry with Talavera-style ceramics since 2016. It's a style I feel very proud to work with.

During these years, we have grown considerably. We haven't had the opportunity to attend more exhibitions nationwide, but what has allowed us to perfect our technique and the source of our inspiration is the Talavera de Puebla. I have always felt a very special attraction for this technique — its harmony, its use of blue and ivory, and its brightness and simplicity.

In the beginning, I worked at every step, from designing to crafting the piece of jewelry and distributing it. Now there are five people who work with me and have supported me to continue this adventure.

One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the constant imitation. We each have our unique touch, but it's inevitable that some shoppers won't be inspired to see yours. My personal touch is the harmony of colors and not only will my designs show the Talavera tradition, but will also have harmony and balance.

Thanks to you, I have been able to expand my horizons and my vision and mission. I'm glad to know that my designs are exported to various parts of the world. Leaving a part of me in my jewelry is very rewarding.

Original Artisan Story

I'm Monica Vazquez from Guadalajara. I craft jewelry that fuses different materials and ideas — usually hand-painted ceramic with silver, mined in Mexico.

I consider myself a creative person. I work hard and am dedicated to everything I do. Tough situations lead me to stay on track, and this motivates me to surpass my previous achievements, earn a university degree, work, and learn many things from life.

Later, I found myself out of work and so I began to create artisanal jewelry. I feel a certain pride in knowing that my designs can now be seen all over the world.

I've had a lot of fun moments in my life, and the time spent with my family and friends has brought many a smile. Laughter should be a part of living.

I feel a profound admiration and love for everything made in Mexico. Seeing the different arts and craft forms of our country led me to use Puebla's handcrafted Talavera ceramic. It gives a special touch to my silver designs and each material enhances the other. I've learned a great deal from the Talavera ceramists, and this has let me create designs of my own.

Ever since I was a child, I've loved to work with my hands. Crafting is very fulfilling. As I learned about different kinds of handicrafts, I discovered a passion for jewelry and an ability to create unique designs. The ceramic accents I use are individually painted by hand.

My inspiration comes from things we women like — what we wear, what makes us stand out and, of course, Mexican artisan work, which is an art in itself for me. The difficult part is creating designs that shoppers will continue to wear and love.

Working on my own has been a very gratifying experience. It's been a challenge — both personally and professionally — but it's enriched me with the people I've met who have encouraged and supported me.

I'd love to become recognized as a designer here and throughout the world. So far, I do all the work myself, but if I were able to have assistants, I'd want them to share my passion for Mexican art. If this happens, I'll be able to create a source of income for others using fair trade concepts.