Some say that it takes a village. Knots and Stones would tell you that all it takes is a seed. This line of handmade, high-quality, eco-friendly jewelry and accessories comes from seeds that have been sustainably harvested from the rainforests of South America and become the core of wearable art with insanely deep connections to nature.
A&F: What's the idea behind your jewelry line?
Knots and Stones: We provide the socially conscious woman who loves to accessorize with a stylish eco-friendly alternative that does not compromise her budget or sense of style. In designing K&S’s products, I strive to keep the jewelry simple, colorful and fun, as a reminder of the way life should be. Our jewelry gives everyone the chance to support our move towards a greener lifestyle, and carry a little bit of mother earth closer to them while looking fabulous. We want everyone to feel good about looking good! I also enjoy know that I am bringing a little of South America and its natural beauty to my adoptive home.
A&F: What is unique about your creations?
Knots and Stones: All our jewelry is made from seeds that have been sustainably harvested from the rainforests of South America combined with other organic materials like orange peel and vegetable/natural fibers. The most commonly used seed in our pieces is the Tagua Nut (pronounced Ta-qwa or Tah-gwa), which is also known as Vegetable Ivory, Corozo, Coquilla, or Palm Nut. The seed resembles Ivory when it is dried and can be carved into jewelry, buttons, and sculptural pieces. Unlike Ivory, however, Tagua is a renewable resource. Consequently, the use of Tagua helps to ensure the survival of the rainforests by promoting reforestation and providing an alternative income for its inhabitants. Other seeds used in our jewelry include Acai, Chocos/Huayruros/Pionias, Chirilla/Achiras, Chambimbes/Soapnut, Ojo de buey, Orejeros, Acacias, Dalmatas, Mate, Chuapos, Carambolo, Enebro, Diente de Leon, and Bombonas.
A&F: How did you become involved with these unique raw materials?
Knots and Stones: I was born in Colombia and seed jewelry has been a part of our indigenous culture, almost as much as gold and emerald jewelry. For centuries, indigenous people have used colorful seeds from the rainforest to artfully craft beautiful necklaces, bracelets and earrings. It is well known that some indigenous communities of South America commonly used Tagua to represent the feminine because of its great magnet-like romantic energy. Each member of the tribe was given a Tagua pendant to wear around his or her neck. They believed that persons wearing Tagua would live in harmony and always be loved by their family and friends.
A&F: What inspires your creativity?
Knots and Stones: Thinking about Colombia, where even in the cities you can feel nature and color; the seeds themselves, I often start and finish a design by simply playing with the seeds; and lots of people watching.
A&F: What's your favorite thing about Artists & Fleas?
Knots and Stones: The good energy. Everyone, the vendors and visitors, are so friendly and open to conversation and new things.
