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This week there is a special celebration of Artisan Crafted Jewelry from around the world. Many of you know that this is my special passion and project. Over the last 11 years, I have been privileged to be able to work closely with artisans from many different countries to create unique, exclusive designs. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is to see how, over the years, the artisans and craftsmen (and craftswomen) have been able to better their lives because of our relationship. I have been in most of our workshops in every country and see first hand the pride and talents of the artisans. I wanted to share some of their stories with you.


I just returned from Beijing, where we filmed new footage for the premier of Imperial China Artisan Crafted. Yim Tom, will be the on air guest. Did you know that she was born in Beijing, that her Mother grew up in a house connected to the Imperial City, and that her Grandfather was an official in the Imperial City? Many of the craftsmen that we work with can trace their skill and talents to previous generations. One of the craftsmen, pictured working on repousse, said that he knows for a fact it goes back at least five generations in his family. Another told me at least four generations and his family believes much farther. When the Communist took over, the craftsmen were not allowed to make jewelry, cut stones, or even wear jewelry. The craft went underground and was kept alive secretly between family members and very close friends. After the Cultural Revolution, the artisans were once again allowed to work on their crafts and slowly the masters have been able to train their younger protégés.


In India, while visiting one of our artisans, they introduced me to the entire family and each proudly showed me what they did on each piece of jewelry. The father made the wire, the uncle cut the wire into small pieces and made the beautiful filigree designs, the mother was braiding a fabulous handcrafted chain, and the cousin was polishing the final piece. The family has turned a large room in their home into their studio and is so proud of what they have accomplished.


Yi, in northern Thailand is one of my favorite artisans. Injured at the age of 18 he taught himself the art of repousse. The artisans had brought the knowledge with them when they migrated into the area but were only making jewelry for themselves. Yi mastered the technique and has opened a school to teach others his craft. I was thrilled to see him zipping around town on his new motorized wheel chair which looks (and sounds) like a Harley.


The art of jewelry making in Turkey is as old as civilization itself. I stayed at a 6th century monastery while working with the craftsmen there. The area, known originally as Assyria, dates back to Biblical days. Most of the artisans are Assyrian Christians and are very proud of the Telkari, their unique filigree technique. While standing outside the monastery, I could see acres and acres of almond trees. The almond flower is a special inspiration because it blooms early and is the sign that spring has arrived. Their other inspirations are endless and include Ephesus, the site of the Temple of Diana, one of the ancient wonders of the world, and where St. Paul wrote and St. John took Mary after the crucifixion.


There are so many more wonderful stories, but I am told to keep my blogs to one page. Please tune in to the Artisan Crafted Silver Celebration and call in and say hello. I will be on air August 5 at 2:00 AM and 1:00 PM and on August 6 at 1:00 AM and 7:00 PM.


Take care, Peyton