artisan silver jewelry

Inspired by symbols central to the Andean cosmovision, such as the chakana cross and the condor, Bertha Vera creates this pretty set of stud earrings. The two pairs of post earrings are crafted from 950 silver and engraved with oxidized designs.

Known as Inti Raymi, the Incan sun god is depicted at the center of this necklace. Peruvian artisan Dina designs the pendant, handcrafted of ceramic and painted. A beaded strand of ceramic with sterling silver hosts the pendant. The necklace closes with a silver clasp.

By Peruvian artisan Marianela Vargas, this pair of dangle earrings features the image of the Mascapaicha, the symbol for the Inca Empire. Marianela crafts the fan-shaped symbol of sterling silver, elaborated with fantastic cutwork patterns.

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 center 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 on this black faux leather bracelet.

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 center 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.

With corn forming part of the diet of people in Peru for thousands of years, it isn't surprising that artisan Dina chooses to represent this traditional and ancient food in this intriguing ceramic beaded necklace. Charming handcrafted tubular ceramic beads evoke corn cobs; they intermingle with brown and black beads in the necklace which closes with a sterling silver fold-over clasp. With its neutral tones, the accessory is excellent for a casual outing and also subdued enough to be work appropriate.