Today we stand within the Bali Botanic Gardens in Indonesia refreshed by the cool climate, and invigorating air.The gardens have a spectacular orchid collection and house a botanical library, laboratory, nursery, herbarium, and five greenhouses.
Indonesia is also the home of featured jewelry designer Nyoman Sukartini.
It seemed Sukartini always knew she would bring the beauty of Bali sterling silver jewelry to the world.
Raised according to Bali custom, she was taught to center her life around God, her husband, and to the greater society.
She dutifully learned to do housework, and how to cook; but by age 16, she wanted to explore other areas in which to honor her Balinese culture.
For three years, she learned about ceramics and batik (a technique used to dye fabric) while attending the school SMIK (Sekolah Menengah Industri Kerajinan).
At age 19, she became an apprentice to a silversmith who specialized in jewelry making. It was here Sukartini recognized the spirituality and connection to God experienced with molding and shaping hot metal into wearable ornaments.
The skills Sukartini acquired were invaluable as she furthered her jewelry making abilities by working with other local silversmiths "to promote Bali's beauty in our own way." Her handmade jewelry designs, made almost exclusively in sterling silver, reflect both traditional and modern aesthetics.
The Dancing Dragon Pendant, for example, highlights a powerful Balinese legend in stunning detail, while the Secret Love Ring highlights the signature design of textured spheres and tendrils.
There are her modern
, sleek renderings that include the Angel Wings Ring, Geometry Necklace, and Ohh! Earrings (all worn by the pictured model).Of particular interest to Sukartini is a necklace featuring three, lacy butterflies, called Free as a Butterfly, which represents freedom.
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Photo 1 (top right): Sterling Silver Hypnotic Sun Cuff with Carnelian
Photo 2 (bottom left): Sterling Silver Secret Love Ring with Garnet
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