family jewelry

Combining cords in aurora red and black, Maria Astuhuaman creates a colorful unity bracelet. A polished disc of sterling silver depicts a stylized family in which adults and children form heart shapes. "This design promotes staying home to help prevent the spread of the corona virus as we protect those we love in unity with others," the Peruvian artisan says.

Two brown braids and two sleek black cords 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."

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."

Also known as the Andean cross, the chakana is an ancient symbol often seen in Peru's ancient art. It represents the Southern Cross. One of the pre-Hispanic astral symbols that presided over the Andean universe, the chakana symbolizes order in family and community life. It is taken from a constellation of stars forming a square, and represents the universe connected to the centre of the world. It also symbolizes a stairway toward the most high. "For me, the chakana also represents spirituality," Maria Astuhuaman confides. "It serves as a medium of connection between us and the divine." The artisan presents a sterling silver chacana in a 10 mm-wide red faux leather bracelet.