Black Jade Bead Pendant Bracelet - Tierra

Artisan Organization: Victoria Zurdo

Country: India

"I was born in the beautiful city of Antigua, Guatemala in 1983 and grew up in a family of artisans. My parents are jewelers. From the time I was just a girl, I was on top of the things my father did in the workshop. This is how my mind began adapting me to this creative world. He is the one who taught me to design and craft jewelry and he helped me perfect my technique. I want to take part in the design and the finishing of each piece of jewelry we create. He has been my best teacher and my greatest source of support. Eventually, I began create my own designs by trial and error.

"I'm the mother of two marvelous boys who are my strength and inspiration in everything I do. I have a firm belief in God and we are thankful for every moment of the blessings we receive.

"A few years ago, I began to make bracelets. I was excited and had so many illusions. Little by little, I began developing different designs and was convinced I could grow as a designer and as the owner of a small workshop.

"Every step I've taken along this path has been worth it. Today I'm happy and proud of my bracelet collection 'What's Up, Bro?' (¿Qué Onda, 'Mano?). This is a greeting of friendship that we use in Latin America, an abbreviation of 'hermano´ (brother), an expression we use for the complicity that exists among friends.

"My dream is to be able to create jobs to help mothers, who are the heads of their families. And, do you know what? Thanks to your purchases, this has already begun! Thank you for being a part of my dream. A thousand thanks.""