well made jewelry

By Nicte Migliozzi, this delightful necklace reveals the beauty of natural lilac jade. She works in sterling silver, centering her design with a smooth gemstone heart. Feather charms complement the pendant, one of sterling silver, the other of shibuichi, a golden alloy of copper and silver.

If you love original fashion accessories that break the mold, then you will adore this jewelry set that comes with an aqua pendant necklace and pendant wristband bracelet crafted from a creative mix of materials. Both are adjustable and feature pendants made from resin with a dolphin print as well as petite synthetic flowers and leaves inside. While the necklace features a waxed nylon cord with a pinewood bead, the bracelet is braided with the macrame technique by Costa Rica's Lorena and Marcela.

Jade, mined in Guatemala, has been prized since pre-Hispanic rimes. Pablo Castellanos sets the deep green gem in a beautiful cocktail ring. Three circles crown the stone. "This is an exclusive design that symbolizes the unity and trinity of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit," he says. "However, it can also represent the trinity of other religions and beliefs."

.925 Sterling silver

Inspired by the iconic Guatemalan landmark Cerro de la Cruz, where stands a giant cross that overlooks the city of Antigua, Cristóbal Ramírez designs this fantastic wrap bracelet. Petite glass beads are hand-strung on nylon cord using a small, specialized loom. The bracelet features colors of beige, petal pink and grey with golden cross shapes.

Take any look to new heights with these eye-catching wrap bracelets showcasing a chic color palette of black and blue. Crafted by Guatemala's Domingo Reanda, the meticulous interweaving of gorgeous crystal and glass beads, fashioned on specialized bead looms, breathes life into these exquisite designs. Polished Tibetan-style pewter buttons provide a fashionable finishing touch.

Artisan Domingo explains, "The first beautiful bracelet is inspired by compassion. I've incorporated dark-colored beads to symbolize challenging moments, while the metallic and transparent beads represent understanding and concern for the well-being of others, especially when they're going through tough times. Just as these elements come together to create a harmonious piece, may this bracelet serve as a reminder of the beauty of compassion, how it brings people together, and the comfort it offers during life's darker moments.

The second beautiful bracelet is crafted using blue, reminiscent of water, and earthy tones symbolizing paths. I created it with inspiration from the guidance we sometimes need to make life's decisions. Just as water flows and finds its way, and the earth lays the groundwork for our journey, may this bracelet serve as a reminder that guidance and direction are always within reach, helping us navigate life's twists and turns. Trust in your inner compass, and you'll find your way to brighter horizons."

Unleash your unique style with this lively duo of wrap bracelets boasting an energizing color palette dominated by orange, purple, brown and yellow hues. Shimmering crystal and glass beads, meticulously interwoven by Guatemala's Domingo Reanda using a specialized bead loom, make these vibrant designs come to life. Gleaming Tibetan-style pewter buttons add a fashionable final touch.

Artisan Domingo explains, "In the creation of these bracelets, my inspiration was drawn from two distinct color palettes. For the first bracelet, I combined earthy tones with metallic hues, symbolizing the grounding essence of the present moment and the promise of abundance. I wholeheartedly believe that focusing on positive thoughts and nurturing an attitude of gratitude is a powerful way to beckon more abundance into our lives, whether in the realm of emotional well-being or in material aspects such as wealth and possessions. This bracelet serves as an open invitation to embrace a positive and appreciative mindset, a companion you can carry with you at all times.

In crafting the second bracelet, I carefully selected vibrant tones interwoven with metallic hues, signifying the radiant energy of the present moment and the protective shield against negative influences and physical harm. It is my sincere hope that this bracelet will stand as a perpetual reminder to maintain a positive perspective and to live fearlessly."

Inspired by the etching of a well-dressed skeleton created by Mexican illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada in 1913, Guatemalan artisan Estuardo Jimenez creates a necklace with a handmade sterling silver skull pendant. The original drawing, called La Calavera Catrina, had the skeleton wearing a large and ornate hat and was meant as a satire of Mexicans who wished to emulate upper-class Europeans. This Catrina has an engraved leaf and flower head covering rather than a hat and hangs from black cotton cord. Openwork gives the skull the appearance of facial features. The necklace can be made longer or shorter using the sliding knot on the cord.

Rosario Leiva of Guatemala has sought a creative and unique way to create new forms of use for those items that many take as "waste," as well as raise awareness of the damage we do to the environment. These button earrings, made from recycled CDs, are the perfect example. She begins by melting down the discs, then pours the liquid into molds. Later, she paints them with acrylic and uses a blowtorch to carefully insert the sterling silver earring posts.

Rosario Leiva of Guatemala has sought a creative and unique way to create new forms of use for those items that many take as "waste," as well as raise awareness of the damage we do to the environment. These button earrings, made from recycled CDs, are the perfect example. She begins by melting down the discs, then pours the liquid into molds. Later, she paints them with acrylic and uses a blowtorch to carefully insert the sterling silver earring posts.