Silver dangle earrings, "Karen Star Leaf"

"Hello, I'm Chanatip Na Lampoon - or you can call me Too. I was born on January 4, 1980 in northern Thailand, but I grew up in Bangkok. However, when I was about ten years old we moved back to my childhood home to help my aunt take care of her business.

"My mother, on her part, also used to sell clothes that she'd bring over from Bangkok. All of this inspired me to delve into an area of my own, which is that of silver jewelry. When I was in high school, I studied interior design, and at university, I graduated in engineering. I realized I could combine all of my interests and set up my own workshop. I also learned a lot from my neighbor; he was a silversmith and he integrated colorful beads and leather pieces into his designs.

"Fortunately, the Thai government supports people who start their own ventures by providing the proper guidance. They suggested buying silver from the hill tribe people since the government is encouraging them to develop other activities rather than growing opium. The people of the different hill tribes craft the silver pieces such as beads, which I then integrate into my own designs and collections. Every bead or motif they create reflects the magnificence of the tribes' own artistry. This is why my designs are a mixture of ancient and modern styles.

"I am proud of my work. It is something I enjoy which also provides an income not only for me, but for the people of the hill tribes. Normally I make only one piece of each design, which looks equally good with dressy or casual wear.

"Sometimes people complain and want to pay less for an item, they don't realize all the hard work that goes into creating the silver pieces and then the designs. I always tell these people, 'If you buy what you like it'll make you happy and you'll enjoy wearing it anywhere and anytime; it would be worthless to buy it if you don't really like it.'

"So, I would like to tell all of you that it would make me really happy if you purchase my jewelry because I know you'll really love it."