Moose Spotlight: Bright and Romantic Jewelry Creations

"...let the imagination bring the magic."

- Maria of @mandalashanti

MEET THE ARTIST

@mandalashanti on Instagram

Meet jewelry artist Maria, based in Barcelona, Spain. She has an overall 5 years of experience but got started metalsmithing for over 6 months. Her creations can be seen on Instagram @mandalashanti ✨

THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY

What inspired her to start creating jewelry are two things - two special things: nature and animals!

Maria recalled her what it was like for her in the beginning, "I started with imitation jewelry. Then, I was stuck with no ideas and I decided to go one step forward and I did a metalsmith course for 12 hours. My new journey began, so now there are no limits. My imagination is the only limit!"

Mandala Shanti is a beautiful name for Maria's business - curious if there was a significant meaning behind it, she said she used to make Tibetan Malas and she decided to use a name that brings peace, "so Shanti me and peace."

Let's take a look at some of Maria's beautiful creations!

Turquoise Cuff by Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

Turquoise Ring by Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

Turquoise Jewelry by Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

ARTIST'S DESIGN STYLE

AHA moments, especially when it comes to creating art, are truly special! For Maria, it happened when she created her swan medallion piece :)

Jewelry Artist Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

Here are a few more lovely pieces by Maria inspired by animals and nature!

Opal Ring by Jewelry Artist Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

Handmade Pendant by Jewelry Artist Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

Handmade Jewelry by Jewelry Artist Maria of @mandalashanti on Instagram

THE DESIGN PROCESS

How she conceptualizes jewelry is quite inspiring, Maria said, "Normally I go with a stone and I let my mind flow. I normally don’t make any drawing. I just go as I feel in the moment I create."

Maria described her design style as romantic and bright - pretty evident from the photos shown above :)

JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES

What's one design tip you one to share with your fellow artists?

"My tip is just not to force. Just let the imagination bring the magic!"

One piece of technical advice on creating.

"Be calm, and always check silver color change as you are soldering."

Any words of encouragement or tips to those who are starting out in the world of jewelry-making?

"Don't worry if at first it is hard. Experience is perfection. And create what makes you feel good, not create things that you are not happy with it just because some customer like different things. Every one has their own personality and that will show on the piece you make."

Lastly, here's Maria's message to the universe:

Blog Feature by Turquoise Moose for Maria of @mandalashanti