Maria Eugenia Gutierrez Villafan

Bolivia

Year(s) attended: 2008

Acantos-Joyas Bolivianas

The Crafts Center at CHF International

Silver Jewelry

Acantos – Joyas Bolivianos, a non-profit organization from La Paz, Bolivia, draws its design inspiration from the traditional silver jewelry of the Bolivian “chola,” the attire of the Andean native and indigenous population. Combining the highest quality of silver and the native gemstones of the region, silversmiths such as Maria Eugenia Gutierrez Villafan create traditionally inspired designs for both an indigenous and urban clientele. A traditional Bolivian jewelry set contains a brooch (or topo) to fasten a shawl, charm necklace and earrings (or falucho) and is traditionally worn in ceremonies, religious events and fold dances. It is inspired by the syncretism of Spanish and indigenous cultures that inform the chola style.