Handcrafted Jewelry designs are handwoven by Mayan Quiche Indians of Guatemala. This small village industry gives families an opportunity to maintain the tradition of handcrafting while sharing with the world an expression of their indigenous culture. The income provided by the sale of these handcrafted jewelry bracelets gives the families funds to purchase food while discouraging slash and burn agriculture, a method of farming that threatens the worlds' vital rainforests. The purchase of handcrafted jewelry provides and alternative source of income to the Quiche villages. These contemporary handicrafts are inspired from traditional patterns and colors of the Indians and are a fashion statement that goes beyond fashion. From the hip to the chic, the intricate glass bead handcrafted jewelry tells of a history of these indigenous people and of a future for their survival. |
