artisan silver jewelry

Hanzi are characters used in Chinese writing. As early as the sixth century A.D., many of these characters began to be simplified and adopted into Japanese writing, where they're known as kanji, a term that is more widely used in the West. Artisans in Yiwu, China, create these pendants by using sterling silver and the lost-wax casting method. Each character emulates the sweeping brushstrokes of traditional calligraphy. Choose based on birth month, favorite color, or simply the symbol that resonates with you most.

January: Garnet/Beauty, February: Amethyst/Generosity, March: Blue Topaz/Affection, April: White Quartz/Love, May: Green Quartz/Sweetness, June: White Pearl/Longevity, July: Carnelian/Perfection, August: Peridot/Purity, September: Iolite/Protection, October: Pink Tourmaline/Happiness, November: Citrine/Artistry, December: Turquoise/Imagination.

Indian artisan Neeru Goel designs these bezel-set stud earrings made with composite turquoise. This pair features green stones framed by sterling silver beads.

Artisan Aparna designs a wonderfully feminine cocktail ring that is ideal for adding an exotic flair to your look. Crafted by hand from sterling silver, the ring features a cabochon of green composite turquoise that sits nestled within a bezel setting. The gemstone is bordered by a unique, eye-catching floral design with petite balls of silver and elegant spirals. The use of oxidization accentuates the lovely details, bringing the abstract flower to life.

Sometimes it's the minor touches that can turn simplicity in to something extra. Beginning by hand crafting a minimal, semi-circle shape from stunning 925 sterling silver, Indian artisan Babun Dey then adds the extra touches that takes this pair of earrings to the next level. Intricately crafted tendril motifs make the perfect setting for an array of brilliant gemstones, including green peridot and a unique, teardrop-shaped composite turquoise.

Minimalist gemstones reveal a world where green is the color of pure elegance. Narayannii of India presents these composite turquoise square earrings, exquisitely crafted by local artisans as a modern design. Allowing easy use, sterling silver posts complete the pair.