handmade

Maria Astuhuaman creates a bright and beautiful unity bracelet. A polished disc of sterling silver poses on red faux leather. It bears the letter S, ending in an arrow. In 2015, world leaders adopted mutual objectives to help eradicate poverty and assure prosperity while protecting the planet. "The pendant depicts the symbol for Objective 12, which seeks to do more with less and disconnect economic growth from ecological destruction, as we try to promote sustainable lifestyles," the Peruvian artisan explains. With this design, she encourages us to live in unity with nature.

Hands clasp one another in a gesture of solidarity. "This design is inspired by togetherness and empathy in our most difficult moments. I want to share my hope that we can unite without borders, without differences, and overcome our problems in life," Jose Luis Pariona confides. "I want to give life and hope." The Andean artisan displays his sterling silver pendant on a red cord unity bracelet.

Four braids — two in brown and two in black — come together in a square knot and return to their origins. Working in leather, Passaramon crafts a handsome unity bracelet. "The corona virus divides us from parents, lovers, or family to stay away from each other and live in fear. Both nostalgia and anxiety still remain people in Thailand and in other countries," the artisan says. "This gave me the idea for this unity bracelet. It means the unity we all have in every difficulty arises and will be a nostalgic symbol to heal people. We shall pass this nightmare together."

Two thick cords come together in a square knot and return to their origins. Working in chocolate brown leather, Chaloemphon crafts a handsome unity bracelet. Painted bone beads adorn each end. "In every country, COVID-19 is a big problem. Let's all work in unity to wear a mask, wash our hands and practice social distancing," the Thai artisan says.

Two thick cords come together in a square knot and return to their origins. Working in black and red leather, Chaloemphon crafts a handsome unity bracelet. "In every country, COVID-19 is a big problem. Let's all work in unity to wear a mask, wash our hands and practice social distancing," the Thai artisan says. Painted bone beads adorn each end.