artistic jewelry

Hanzi are characters used in Chinese writing. As early as the sixth century A.D., many of these characters began to be simplified and adopted into Japanese writing, where they're known as kanji, a term that is more widely used in the West. Artisans in Yiwu, China, create these pendants by using sterling silver and the lost-wax casting method. Each character emulates the sweeping brushstrokes of traditional calligraphy. Choose based on birth month, favorite color, or simply the symbol that resonates with you most.

January: Garnet/Beauty, February: Amethyst/Generosity, March: Blue Topaz/Affection, April: White Quartz/Love, May: Green Quartz/Sweetness, June: White Pearl/Longevity, July: Carnelian/Perfection, August: Peridot/Purity, September: Iolite/Protection, October: Pink Tourmaline/Happiness, November: Citrine/Artistry, December: Turquoise/Imagination.

Designer Ritu Thapar lets her soul rest and bond with the universe in meditation sessions that add peace to her artistic lifestyle. Inspired by those serene and spiritual sensations, she works with local Indian artisans to create this round ceramic necklace, whose hand-painted finish depicts a girl in a mystic meditation exercise. The piece also has a nylon cord that can be adjusted to your liking.

Graceful and beautiful, this handcrafted necklace exemplifies Balinese artistry. Colorful gemstones nestle amid sterling silver leaves and flowers in bright array. Faceted amethyst, citrine and garnet total 2.4 carats to complement a cabochon carnelian. Buana crafts this extraordinary necklace and completes it with a braided black leather cord.

.925 Sterling silver

Award-winning artist Alejandra Aceves handcrafts this elegant and stunning cord bracelet. Made from twisted nylon cord in a captivating purple tone, this adjustable bracelet features a single soft yellow-toned Swarovski pendant attached to the cord by two 14k gold-plated links.