may jewelry

Fabulously detailed, this sculpture of a Maya man is an original creation by artisans from the Angel Cerón Artisan Association. The Mexican artisan, expert in pre-Hispanic art and history, now ventures into the creation of original characters inspired by historical facts. This vivid ceramic sculpture portrays the man with an impressive headdress, attire and jewelry. Sitting cross-legged, he holds a chu - a vessel specifically used for alcoholic beverages.

Wearing a magnificent headdress and jewelry, this Maya man sits with an offering pot in this original sculpture by artisans from the Angel Cerón Artisan Association. The Mexican artisans, expert in pre-Hispanic art and history, now venture into the creation of original characters inspired by historical facts. They handcraft the highly-detailed sculpture with yellow clay from the state of Oaxaca, and finish the Maya personage with brightly colored details.

Black and white may be polar opposite colors, but the blending of the two creates a pleasing harmonious duality, like yin and yang. This beaded necklace created by Thai artisan Tipa is evidence of this beautiful harmony. Spheres of midnight black onyx and stark white ceramic are stacked with hematite bead spacers in a brilliant array. The white ceramic beads feature a bamboo motif for even more detail. The necklace is secured by a sterling silver clasp.

Black and white may be polar opposite colors, but the blending of the two creates a pleasing harmonious duality, like yin and yang. This beaded stretch bracelet created by Thai artisan Tipa is evidence of this beautiful harmony. Spheres of midnight black onyx and stark white ceramic are stacked with hematite bead spacers in a brilliant array. The white ceramic beads feature a bamboo motif for even more detail. A sterling silver lotus charm dangles from the beaded strand.

"Enjoy this beautiful necklace and may your good deeds be more in number than the beads strung on this necklace," encourages Ila Suleyman. He calls his design Maneray, the Mossi term for good deeds. The Mossi are predominantly millet and cattle farmers who use cow hide and other natural materials to create various items including jewelry and accessories. Suleyman crafts the necklace by hand in a palette of warm earth hues featuring glistening agates, terracotta and sese wood beads. A bone pendant painted with batik techniques centers the necklace featuring recycled plastic beads at both sides. Closes with a brass clasp.

Monica Vazquez crafts this lovely necklace with a Talavera-style pendant. Shaped like a crescent moon, the ceramic medallion in hand-painted with a classic cobalt blue motif. The Mexican artisan presents it on a sterling silver chain.

About her work, the artisan says, "I have a deep admiration and love for everything that has been done in Mexico. I love that with these designs we give women beautiful accessories and highlight Mexican craftsmanship."

Because each ceramic bead is individually handcrafted, the motifs and their placement may vary slightly, making your necklace an original work of art.