Ari Gunawan

Ari Gunawan handcrafted sterling silver and gemstone jewelry

"I was born in a Balinese village where the silver work is well-known to be the finest. I am the first born of two children. My parents were also silver craftsmen who wanted me to be an independent person, so they really taught me well to be strong. And the result of their teaching was that I could pay for my own school fees from my silver work. Since then, I rarely asked my parents to support my finances.

"As a village boy, my childhood was really fun. I loved going fishing with my friends in my neighborhood. Even today, fishing is one of the hobbies that I really enjoy. My education was ordinary, like that of other children, but my high school was a bit more interesting since I went to a vocational high school and learned about modern design. At the age of 16, I started to be serious in this field.

"At first, I was forced to learn about silver crafts, but then I found something that really drew me into silver crafting. My grandfather was the one who taught me. He was one of the elders in my village and also one of the most skillful silver craftsmen. Yet, he was not my only teacher, as I also learned from my parents-in-law. I met my wife when we were both learning about silver.

"Now I am married and we are blessed with two sons. Being a father is really amazing for me — many things have changed since I became a father. The old me was selfish and thought only about myself, but now my children are always in my thoughts. I am always thinking about how to prepare for their studies, provide for their needs and also prepare for their future.

"Thank God I'm a silver artisan in Bali, because the materials are easy to find here — from the silver, copper, and gold to the tools such as scissors, tongs and hammers. I have three part-time workers who help make all the designs that I create with my wife. I usually work with her to create beautiful designs. And mostly the inspiration comes from surrounding things."

Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace Ubud, Indonesia

"As a village boy, my childhood was really fun. I loved going fishing with my friends in my neighborhood. Even today, fishing is one of the hobbies that I really enjoy. My education was ordinary, like that of other children, but my high school was a bit more interesting since I went to a vocational high school and learned about modern design. At the age of 16, I started to be serious in this field.

"At first, I was forced to learn about silver crafts, but then I found something that really drew me into silver crafting. My grandfather was the one who taught me. He was one of the elders in my village and also one of the most skillful silver craftsmen. Yet, he was not my only teacher, as I also learned from my parents-in-law. I met my wife when we were both learning about silver.

"Now I am married and we are blessed with two sons. Being a father is really amazing for me — many things have changed since I became a father. The old me was selfish and thought only about myself, but now my children are always in my thoughts. I am always thinking about how to prepare for their studies, provide for their needs and also prepare for their future.

"Thank God I'm a silver artisan in Bali, because the materials are easy to find here — from the silver, copper, and gold to the tools such as scissors, tongs and hammers. I have three part-time workers who help make all the designs that I create with my wife. I usually work with her to create beautiful designs. And mostly the inspiration comes from surrounding things."

Bali and Java Fulfillment Hub

Come with us on a journey to the magical Indonesian islands of Bali & Java, where artistry is a way of life, and soothing tropical vibes ease away all stress and tension. These lands are famous for intricate wood carvings, divine silversmith work, and Batik designs that transport you to another time.

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Maker BadgeCaring for Children

This artist supports children under the age of 18.

Maker BadgeEnabling Education

This artist is currently supporting and providing for the education of their children, grandchildren, or children in their community, whether it be at the primary, secondary, or university level.

Maker BadgeJob Creator

This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.

Maker BadgePreserving Traditions

This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

Maker BadgeCovering Basic Needs

This artist striving to supporting their own or their family's basic needs and improve their livelihood.

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Alternate image for Opal and Sterling Silver Crescent Moon Button Earrings Embellished Moon

$49.99

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Opal and Sterling Silver Crescent Moon Button Earrings 'Embellished Moon'

$49.99

(5)

Comments

Nancy I wear these and get compliments on them all the time. They are so beautiful and though small are a stand-out earring. They are my 'go-to' earrings and I wear them often. Thank you so much for this artistic creation.

4 more comments

Alternate image for Patterned Gold Accented Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace Jungle Roots

$139.99

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Patterned Gold Accented Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace 'Jungle Roots'

$139.99

(3)

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Jen This necklace is statement piece. It's so elegant and goes with everything! LOVE it!

2 more comments

Alternate image for Opal Dragonfly Cocktail Ring Crafted in Bali Dragonfly Grace

$59.99

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Opal Dragonfly Cocktail Ring Crafted in Bali 'Dragonfly Grace'

$59.99

Alternate image for Sterling Silver Wrap Ring Reverse Wings Reversed Wings

$69.99

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Sterling Silver Wrap Ring Reverse Wings 'Reversed Wings'

$69.99

(3)

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Gil . . . and reverse direction of what used to seeing. Love it! Beautiful craftsmanship.

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Alternate image for Patterned Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings from Bali Original Elegance

$99.99

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Patterned Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings from Bali 'Original Elegance'

$99.99

(2)

Comments

Susan I bought these trying to replace my favorite earrings because I’d lost one. They were sterling silver and had I gotten them on a trip to Venice Beach, Ca. I was just sure I would never love another pair of earrings like the one I had lost. But I honestly do love these as much or more! I’m so glad I spotted them on this website!

1 more comment

Alternate image for Gold Accented Blue Topaz Wrap Ring from Bali Double Marquise

$109.99

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Gold Accented Blue Topaz Wrap Ring from Bali 'Double Marquise'

$109.99

(2)

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Valerie It is simply beautiful! The craftsmanship is very good. I find the gold to be a great accent feature. The style will make it easier to wear because it will fit almost any finger.

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147 Reviews for

July 14, 2023

S Susan

I bought these trying to replace my favorite earrings because I’d lost one. They were sterling silver and had I gotten them on a trip to Venice Beach, Ca. I was just sure I would never love another pair of earrings like the one I had lost. But I honestly do love these as much or more! I’m so glad I spotted them on this website!

Ari Gunawan

Ari Gunawan

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