Oxidized Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings from Bali 'Middle of Something' Item ID: 2677085892

“I was born in Desa Celuk, Sukawati, Gianyar, Bali in 1983. Desa Celuk is the center of Silver and gold jewelry in Bali. I was born to a line of silversmiths. My mother and father worked as high school teachers alongside being silversmiths. As soon as they got home from teaching, they would work at home at their jewelry business. I am the oldest of 3 siblings; this put me in the position of being a role model to my 2 brothers. That motivated me to set a good example by helping my parents with their work and helping my parents to take care of my brothers while they were busy with their jobs.

“My early education through middle school was spent in my hometown in Desa Celuk. The primary school was very close to my house, so I would come and go by walking, and for middle school, I would take public transport or by ride my bicycle. My high school and university education were in Denpasar. From my second year of high school, I became more active in helping my parents with their jobs as silversmiths, from making the accessories to distributing them to small stores around our area. For this they paid me enough money to keep me motivated.

“I was engaged in sports and physical activities when I was young; therefore sports are my hobby. I enjoy sports such as tennis, running, and being involved in group exercises such as aerobics, pilates, Zumba and yoga. Currently I am happily married; and my husband and I are continuing the family business of selling jewelry and accessories. We are blessed with 2 children; our son who is currently 17 years old, and our daughter who is currently 15 years old. They make me feel responsible to provide the best for them and to ensure they get the best education for a bright future. This is what motivates me to keep working hard.

“With the current situation of COVID-19, I am trying to help my family's financial situation. I am helped by my husband, my parents and two artisans, where we maintain our traditional handmade processes (with some help of machinery) to keep the traditional values in our products. Every product that we design is inspired by the rich Balinese culture, such as Balinese carvings that are highlighted in our motifs of leaves, flowers and other natural designs. Some of our products are combined with other materials such as goat leather that we braid by hand.

“If my friends or relatives were asked of what they think about me, I reckon they would say that I am a perfectionist who pays attention to small details and is always on time and punctual. I hope that in the future I can explore my creativity and meet the demands of the market so I can help my family financially.”