This handmade creation is offered in partnership with NOVICA, in association with National Geographic.
Crafted of polished Andean sterling silver, shining hoops are squared for a modern look. Luis Banda from Peru names the design 'Mama Quilla,' which means 'Fertility Goddess' in Quechua.
Product Features:
- Weight : 0.14 oz
- Dimension : 1.2" L x 1.1" W
- Style: Hoop
- Metal: Sterling silver
- Finish: High polish
- Clasp: Saddleback
- Made in Peru.
Story Behind the Art:
I love nature, and this is why I appreciate handcrafted works made from the earth's gifts, like silver and gemstones. I transform them into… designs that reflect my Inca heritage.
I'm Luis Banda Castañeda, but my friends call me Lucho. I was born in Lima on July 22, 1954. My childhood was spent appreciating the beauty of nature, like the Pacific Ocean with its diversity of colors in its waters, fish, sand, rocks and sunsets. When I began to travel, I'd go to the Andes where I came into contact with the culture of my ancestors, the Inca. Then I visited the Amazon rainforest with its people's different kinds of art. I began collecting handicrafts and jewelry from all these areas.
I studied economy in the university and then my work took me to Europe where I began to sell Peruvian craftwork. When I returned to Lima, I started a business to import radio transmitters for the communications industry. A few years later, I moved to the United States where I had a furniture store. But two years later when I went back to Peru, I began designing jewelry and then went on to craft everything I see in silver and precious stones.
Some of my friends tell me I'm a dreamer. I tell them that the only way to create is first to dream. You can even dream while you're awake in order to create something!
I love nature, and this is why I appreciate handcrafted works made from the earth's gifts, like silver and gemstones. I transform them into original jewelry designs that reflect my Inca heritage.
Please allow 10 business days for the product to leave our warehouse and to receive tracking information. You should expect to receive this item within 15 business days.