Discover Handmade Jewelry at NOVICA
Wednesday, April 28th, 2010While I’m known to adore mainstream designers Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg and Tom Ford, I equally love and admire the independent, little known artists of the world who create unique pieces that keep you from looking like everyone else on the street.
At NOVICA.com, you can shop for gorgeous, stunning handmade jewelry specially created by artisans from across the globe. Even if you can’t make it to Bali, you can still own a well-designed piece made by an Indonesian artist, and for less than what you would pay for a designer-made piece. According to the NOVICA website, their mission is clear:
“We want to give artists and artisans around the world a global platform to express their true artistic talents and to spur their creativity. And, we want to provide you with access to unique, hard-to-find items at great values that only the Internet infrastructure can allow. At the deepest essence of our philosophy, we want to create a bridge between you and the many talented artisans across the globe. We want you to know about who you’re buying from. We want you to feel that attachment to the product and to the hands that created it.”
NOVICA.com truly is your bridge to a different culture. When selecting a piece, you are introduced to the artist and his/her vision. This connection remains, because once you receive your item, you also receive an insert featuring a quote from the artist and a thank you note. Also included with your purchase is an impressive box, which you can use as a gift box or for beautiful storage of your new jewelry.
Another aspect of NOVICA that I really appreciate is their microfinance program, in which those of us who believe in art and independent design can select a NOVICA artist to support by loaning her the money she needs for tools, raw materials and machinery. And, yes, this is an actual loan. So, you do get your money back.
When I shopped NOVICA for jewelry, I specifically looked for multi-strand necklaces for myself and a ring for my sister as a birthday gift.
My first selection was “Romance,” by Kalyani Gupta of India. The style and colors are very versatile and can be worn with a casual outfit or dress attire. I recently wore this piece with a floral dress to a wedding. It has a wonderful substantial weight to it, without being uncomfortably heavy.
For my next selection, I chose “Honey Shadow” by Sasina of Thailand. She uses silken strands to create a web-like design through which she keenly disperses gray, brown and silvery pearls. The piece is feather-lightweight, and the cobweb appeal just makes it oh-so-rock and roll.
Lastly is the ring I selected for my sister (shhh, don’t tell her). She lives in a small town and doesn’t have access to much fashion, so I chose “Coral Island” by Warren and Robbin of Indonesia. This polished bone ring is carved by hand and is substantial in size to make an exquisite cocktail ring. I’m sure my big sis will be the only lady in her town sporting this pretty piece.
Add some distinct, creative style to your jewelry collection and check out NOVICA.com today. While you’re shopping for yourself, browse NOVICA’s special Mother’s Day gift boutique. If your mom enjoyed the macaroni necklace you made her in the second grade, imagine how delighted she’ll be with a handmade gift from NOVICA.com.
One more thing, and this is really important, your NOVICA purchases are shipped from their country of origin. That means it could take several days to receive your coveted items, so plan accordingly, and take advantage of NOVICA’s expedited shipping options when available. Happy shopping!
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