Handmade Silver and Rhodonite Dangle Earrings, "Rose Drop Twist"

"I'm Tania. Sandra and I were born in Lima. I came into the world on February 10, 1971, and Sandra was born on May 13, 1984. We both grew up in loving families where we were taught to respect people above all. My family is from Ayacucho, and Sandra's is from Trujillo, in the north. "I studied jewelry design while Sandra, a painter, studied in the School of Fine Arts. When we met in 2003, we became good friends. After a while, we wanted to set up a project together. I focus on the crafting processes and do a bit of designing; Sandra focuses on design and fashion trends.

"We each ventured into the world of jewelry on different paths. I was curious and wanted to be able to modify jewelry I had bought for my own use when I decided to make this my career, and I enrolled in a jewelry school in 1998. I was the first woman in my class, and the professor insisted I leave. That was one of my first challenges and it seems I've had to struggle against everything and everyone.

"I began crafting pieces for myself. But as I realized how much other people liked my designs, I began creating jewelry for them, too.

"Sandra was traveling when she realized how much Peruvian handcrafted jewelry is appreciated in other countries. We decided to work together, crafting jewelry inspired by our own experiences.

"As a hobby, I've always enjoyed working with my hands, molding and creating things with different materials. Sandra likes music of all kinds, especially Peruvian music, and this is a bridge of communication for me that helps us express our feelings through our designs.

"Our jewelry reflects our love for nature, our lives, our dreams; it strives to convey our essence. Usually, we use geometric shapes, seeking a harmony of form. Geometric shapes are abstract and, when worn, they adapt to the wearer's style, highlight her personality and reinforce her attitude.

"My greatest challenge in life has been to accept the loss of my brother, with whom I began my workshop. But it makes me more determined to continue with our dream.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to show our art to all of you. Our jewelry is a manifestation of who we are and sharing it with you is highly gratifying. Our designs are professionally crafted with much love."