Several new pieces of butterfly wing jewelry have been added to our collection, showcasing the wings of a variety of South American butterflies. The red, black, and white designs on this Butterfly Wing Pendant feature what is known as the “88 Butterfly,” due to the figure eight designs that occur naturally on their wings. The iridescent blue comes from the Blue Morpho butterfly, which has a brilliant underside and a neutral brown on top of its wings. Blue Morphos are one of the larger types of butterflies found in the Amazon, and they are beautiful to see in nature. Of course, we respect these creatures and buy handcrafted jewelry that is made after they have expired of natural causes. With so many butterflies in the Amazon, the there is an abundance of butterfly wings that can be found naturally. We like the thought of preserving the delicate wings in sterling silver as a reminder of the beauty of Peru’s natural landscape and wildlife.
Want to know more about our exotic gourd jewelry? The art of Peruvian gourd carving dates back more than 4,000 years, and is still one of the most interesting organic forms of art you will find today. In order to create mate (ma-tay), or pieces of gourd art, artisans choose gourds in different shapes and sizes and then remove their skins. After the outer shell is removed, the gourds are left out in the sun to dry naturally. The dried gourds then become the perfect canvas for traditional Peruvian art. In order to create their designs, artisans use a technique called pyrography. This art form utilizes thin, poker-like instruments which are used to burn designs into organic materials. You may have seen leather or wood that has been etched using a pyrography technique, especially if you are somewhat familiar with Native American art. Although pyrography and gourd carving have been traced back to several ancient societies through Africa and Asia, the ancient people of the Americas are well known for this kind of art. In Peru, gourd carving is especially tied to the highland people in the Andean region. Our artisan jewelry is created by artisans who honor ancient traditions like gourd carving while creating modern styles like these Geometric Peruvian Gourd Earrings.
The stones and shells in the Tikanchay collection all represent the beauty of South America, and of course Peru in particular. Each one is polished to perfection by a master artisan, adding to their beauty and value. The shiny black Obsidian is a form of volcanic glass formed high in the mountains of Peru, and the blue Sodalite is also found in the Andes region. Peruvian Turquoise, or Chrysocolla, is prized for its varied blue and green hues. The Spondylus shell has been used to make South American jewelry for centuries, but was once only worn by royalty. These large thorny oyster shells range in color from deep purple to rosy red and even fiery orange. Therefore, some pieces of Peruvian Spondylus jewelry can be very colorful, even if no other shells or stones are used in the design. For Spondylus jewelry, Sodalite jewelry, and many designs made with Obsidian, Chrysocolla and other Peruvian stones, take a look at the growing collection of artisan jewelry at Tikanchay. This Sodalite necklace is one of our newest designs.
Sodalite is one of the most beautiful Peruvian stones, with a deep blue hue. It has a somewhat marbled look, and sometimes white swirls line the polished stones. The color can range from very deep, almost navy blue, to a lighter shade with more white in it. This natural material is the perfect accent for sterling silver artisan jewelry. We love it not only for its beauty, but also for its meaning. Sodalite is said to bring inner peace and harmony, and also to decrease stress and tension for those those wear it. This powerful Peruvian stone is a favorite at Tikanchay, and we are excited to share a whole new Sodalite jewelry page with you!
Our collection of silver artisan jewelry from Peru is still growing, and Elaine is currently in Peru on another buying trip. It is an exciting time for us, and we find new jewelry styles and artisans to work with. With new artisan necklaces, bracelets and earrings, we are also creating a new look for the website. Be sure to check back in the next few weeks to see new products and photos, like this new Gourd Necklace.
The right accessories can turn a simple outfit into a fashion statement. Whether you’re looking to project an attitude of confidence, a sense of sophistication, or a talent for keeping up with the latest trends, Tikanchay has a piece of sterling silver Peruvian jewelry that will do the trick. This basket weave cuff is a special piece in our all silver collection. The intricate details make it interesting, and the sturdy design shows its quality. Made with .950 silver, it is a piece that will stand the test of time.
These whimsical Lucky in Love Silver Heart Earrings have been added to the growing collection of handcrafted jewelry at Tikanchay.com. They represent not only love and affection, but also good wishes. They make a perfect jewelry gift to wish someone well, or remind her that you love her. Huayruro seeds are given as gifts to newborn babies in Peru, in the form of tiny bracelets. Peruvians also keep the seeds in jars to protect their homes, and in their pockets to ward off negative energy. We celebrate this special Peruvian tradition by seeking out artisans who create modern Huayruro jewelry that is both beautiful and meaningful.
After a long winter (at least here in the Northeast) we are all ready to roll down the windows and pull out the spring clothes! And of course, the perfect complement to a spring dress or blouse is a piece of unique artisan jewelry. Choose one of our artisan necklaces like this Silver Flower Necklace for a great accent piece. It’s handcrafted by master artisans using .950 sterling silver. The delicate flowers are perfect for spring, and the silver is almost white. It shimmers and shines with every movement, and is sure to make you feel elegant while bringing some fun into your wardrobe.
Every woman who wears Tikanchay jewelry has a unique personal style. However, almost all of them will tell you that the exotic Peruvian jewelry styles are what drew them in to the site. Although all of our jewelry is handcrafted by Peruvian artisans, certain pieces are made with native Peruvian materials, making them exotic treasures. The intriguing Huayruro seeds, butterfly wings from the Amazon, and unique hand-carved gourd are all exclusive to Peru. The beauty of these pieces transcends country borders, and proves that style is universal. Check out our new Peruvian Jewelry section to view all of these special Peruvian designs in one place.
The hand carved design in this Gourd Necklace makes it one of a kind. No two designs are exactly alike, and this style features two impressive birds. The gourd is placed in a .950 handcrafted sterling silver setting, which gives it a stylish look. When it comes to handcrafted jewelry, mate (ma-tay) is one of the most interesting and unique art forms used today. This ancient art can be traced back many centuries, and still amazes those who see it. The bird and flower motif on this necklace makes it a perfect accessory for spring!
