simple silver 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.

As the sun sets beneath the horizon, the bright light of the day gives way to the deep color of the cosmos and signifies another day of life on Earth. This wonderfully designed cocktail ring will have you gazing in to the cosmic abyss of a stunning amethyst in a beautiful sterling silver setting. Indian artisan Pawanesh Gupta creates his design with a simple, elegant band and setting, allowing the true charm of the gemstone to shine.

A glorious amethyst crowns this handcrafted cocktail ring by Chintan of India. Lovely and alluring, the ring features intricate jali openwork designs on its sterling silver band.

A shining halo of sterling silver surrounds cabochon amethyst gems in these earrings from Neeru Goel. Dangling from polished sterling hooks, the pair exudes style and elegance.

Bali artisan Made Sri takes a simple design and elevates it to art with brilliant execution. This lovely cuff bracelet is formed of a slender band of sterling silver with a hammered finish. Centering the cuff are two one-carat amethyst stones with a classic rectangular cut. The gemstones are oriented differently--one vertically and one horizontally--for a unique asymmetrical look.

Balinese artisan Dessy Kumala presents this handmade set of three sterling silver stacking rings. The simple design of the band allows each gem to shine brightly together in complementary colors or on their own, as each ring is separate. Featuring glittering amethyst, peridot and blue topaz, this stacking ring set is designed to dazzle.