Sterling Silver and Wood Pendant Necklace from Thailand 'Sophisticated Form' Item ID: 2671798336

Hi, my name is Ralyon Hengwatanakul. I was born in Chiang Mai. I grew up in a family of silk merchants in the middle of the city. I studied computer engineering in England, then married Jaifah Aksornsri, who is also a featured NOVICA artisan.

When I returned to live in Chiang Mai, I got to know her family's silver, woodworking, and antique business. Sometimes, I helped her in a shop located on Wualai Road, a well-known location for silversmiths in Chiang Mai, and got inspired to create something new from the materials we had. But, a lot of merchants were already selling traditional Thai handicrafts. If I started to do the same thing, it would be boring. So, I tried starting with a natural shape, choosing materials like mai maka wood and sterling silver to create cool jewelry that was suitable for new and older generations.

I work with some craftsmen from my wife's workshop who live near our village. I'm proud that I could combine both carpentry and silversmithing to create a contemporary jewelry collection. Now, I live happily with my wife and two children who help with this business. We want to continue silversmithing and woodworking, combining a contemporary style with the traditional styles of Thailand.

I want to grow our presence on the online market through NOVICA, because we are proficient in our craft but not in online marketing. These days, consumer behavior is changing; they don't have to go out shopping, and instead can buy anything from anywhere in the world on the internet. I want my new Thai handicrafts to be known. I hope my customers will love my work.