Bali Jewelry Collection: Works of Art for Our Wardrobes
January 08, 2018

Bali Jewelry Collection: Works of Art for Our Wardrobes

Let's talk about Bali-style jewelry, the jewelry trend that has been around for centuries and still remains popular today. I remember when I first started crafting jewelry back in 1997, I felt a strong connection to the old-world artistry and charm of Bali-style beads. It was as if a past life was staring at me and I felt right at home. I envisioned bustling markets, the smell of incense, and the chatter of business owners bartering for the best price. Since then, I have continued to incorporate Bali-style elements into my jewelry, and I'm always amazed at how these tiny beads can transform a design.

Bali, the smallest province in Indonesia, is renowned for its skilled metalworkers who handcraft the fabulous silver beads known as Bali beads. Metalworking has been part of the island's culture since the Bronze Age, and the artistry has been passed down over the centuries. Bali-style jewelry is characterized by delicate filigree work accented by tiny beads of granulation that are placed on each piece by hand. This attention to detail is what makes Bali-style jewelry so unique and sought-after.

Bali-style jewelry is not just limited to beads; it also includes intricate designs inspired by the architecture and landscape of Bali. Bali temples, known as puras, have a simple yet complex geometric design with clean lines and pagoda-like tiers intended for open-air worship. Elaborate gates surround the temples and are sculpted into floral patterns, either in stone or wood. Skilled artisans, such as sculptors and metalworkers, have carried down their traditions through the generations, and their work is evident in the exquisite details of Bali-style jewelry.

Red Murano glass necklace

My Bali-style jewelry collection features some of my favorite treasures turned jewelry, from delicate flower earrings to bold geometric shield earrings. The Bali beads used in my designs can stand alone as a centerpiece, but they can also be used to accent precious materials and gemstones for a more elaborate design. For instance, a Bali bead accents the Red Venetian necklace, made of Murano glass, adding to the regality of the piece; it's truly fit for a queen!

It's incredible how we can now touch, see, and wear jewelry from faraway places we may never visit. Whether it's beads from Bali or Murano glass, I feel truly lucky to be able to design with these amazing materials from around the world and create adornments full of history. So, which piece from my Bali-style jewelry collection is your favorite? Check it out and let me know in the comments below!