Bulgaria is a member of the European Union in 2007. Standards of living have started to rise even if it's still the second-poorest member state.

Widespread problems concerning corruption, high inflation (12,5% in 2007) and inequalities are some of the issues that people have to deal with on a daily basis.

I had the privilege of travelling to Bulgaria in April 2008 and simply feel in love with the warmth of its people, their determination to preserve traditional crafts and their courage to fight the poverty and hardships of life on a daily basis.

About Mariana

I met Mariana in the small medieval capital called Veliko Ternovo where she creates handmade jewellery in a little shop. Spending a couple of days in her company, I discovered her passion for arts, joy of living and dream of travelling to India...

About Ilza

Ilza started working with Mariana four years ago when she moved
in a very old traditional house with a garden in the same town. Her art evolved as she learned to take care of flowers from seeds and was inspired to work with their shape, color and beauty.

About the Jewellery

The jewels are made to speak out for themselves, and once they begin to reflect the nature of their owners, they become as unique as they themselves. Each piece is created in a specific balance of form, colour and design.

“Their craft is so unique and exclusive that I get compliments every time I wear it!” Anne-Marie