gifts for friends

Covet this eco-friendly interpretation of the classic nativity scene, typical of the days spent with family before Christmas. This sculpture integrates the pieces of the scene into a convenient single sculpture, facilitating its safe keeping and preventing the loss of important characters. Inspired by her religion and traditions, Salvadoran artisan Marcela Moran crafts this nativity sculpture from handwoven cotton and naturally occurring fibers from the calabash gourd, jute and agave, following her passion to create sustainable and biodegradable products.

Cajamarca angels make their presence felt in handcrafted earrings by Jorge Perez. Ornate openwork distinguishes the slightly curved sterling silver pair.

A message of love, faith, and hope from Indian jewelry designer Shivani Choudhary makes quite a statement in this sterling silver meditation spinner ring. The crafting process begins with a hammered silver band, upon which three slender bands spin freely. The center band features a silver cross, while the two outside bands are adorned with brass hearts.

The OM symbol, representing all sounds and symbolizing the essence of the universe, is nestled among frangipani blossoms in this magnificent hand carved suar wood wall relief panel by Balinese artisan Seji Taram.

Known as om or aum, omkara is the root of all sounds, emitted as a mantra during meditation. It is believed all desires will vanish, thus attaining self-realization and the highest of knowledge. This one letter symbolizes the most high in the Hindu pantheon, representing every kind of trinity such as Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva, past-present-future, birth-life-death; creation-preservation-destruction, and waking-dreaming-deep sleep.

Garnet, citrine, iolite, peridot, and amethyst surround a central blue topaz in this sterling silver pendant. The gems are hand-cut in Jaipur and hand-set in Kolkata. Inspired by the works of recently canonized missionary Mother Teresa, who spent much of her life ministering in Kolkata.

With paws clasped in a fervent wish, this charming cat closes its eyes in a prayer of thanks. Nengah Sudarsana expresses his love for animals through his wood sculptures, masterfully carved by hand.