Silver jewelry and exotic seeds in a unique design

Nicolas Estrada, a Colombian jeweler living in Barcelona, has the ability to strongly express himself through his jewelry.

You can learn from his capacity to share and bring out his soul in every single piece of silver jewelry or any other material he puts his hands on, offering a lesson about intention and passion.

Nicolas, a former student of artistic jewelry, from the famous Escola Massana in Barcelona.

He is a living example of the saying that goes: art is 10% inspiration and 90% transpiration.

He has a Bachelor of Science from Babson College and a Masters in Marketing Management from the University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona.

The Star People necklace above, from his Light Collection, is made up of seeds, gold, silver and electric components.

Nicolas has also studied and traveled to 13 countries around the world. That by itself is a fantastic learning opportunity, an eye-opening experience to all the marvels the world has to offer.

A never ending learning curve – the key to success

An expert never claims knowledge.

I believe Nicolas has remained true to himself and his art amidst such a fruitful and successful career. His silver jewelry designs speaks-up for him.

Internationally acclaimed work

And was Finalist at Enjoia’t in 2002.

His silver jewelry combined with natural materials such as tagua nut (vegetable ivory) and exotic seeds are one of his most successful collections.

Tapunami´s Secret, a necklace containing vegetable ivory, made of silver and electric components, is a beautiful piece shown above.

In his own words, taken from www.klimt02.net: “My main purpose in jewelry is to express my most personal feelings; feelings about my origin, my memories, the situation of my native country, myself in a foreign environment.

When I have feelings of disapproval and criticism, pieces like those in the Sin collection come out. Although they are perceived by many as violent pieces, they really are a complaint against the Colombian situation and the suffering of the people. Yet, nowadays the issue of religion and arms is completely global.

The Light collection comes out of completely opposite feelings and expresses totally different things. These small objects with light are the result of an inner search, my origin, my myths, my legends: my past.”

Shedding light over the significance of jewelry making

This Bright Star pendant (night view) is exquisite.

Nicolas’s silver jewelry skillfully blended with other materials, asserts a profound sense of being.

“The legends of Colombian Native Indians were the basis for this set of jewels with light. Their tales describe the origins of the universe, the earth, the sun, the moon, the stars and the humans in a simple and innocent way. The mixture of these stories with exotic seeds, precious stones, metals and technology, originated this set of particular jewels. It is the creation of a world where light and legend are combined.

Each one of these pieces has a small light bulb and battery case; when activated, a light glows from the jewel’s interior, revealing unexpected silhouettes textures and forms.”

When I first stumbled upon this collection I was wowed at the sheer idea of incorporating a mechanism within the piece of silver jewelry.

The effect is amazing; it stretches the purpose of the piece and adds excitement to its character. I’d love to wear on of those.

I am learning that there is no need for subsequent labeling of our own work or the work of others. It’s not about characterizing ourselves based on our methods or visual means. Instead, it is about fulfilling our dreams and aspirations.

And that is so much harder work.

Nature, where inspiration always starts and ends

“Organic is a collection inspired by nature. In its pieces one can see natural and harmonious shapes, bulbs on the verge of flowering, excited and insinuating forms, and movements generated by a gentle spring breeze.”

Nicolas also takes inspiration from a world full of prodigy and genius.

You just have to look around with curious eyes to honor nature and life’s infinite creativity.

Just as nature bursts with joy everywhere and has no shame to brag about its own beauty and miracle, you too can harness that bliss.

Let your inner soul communicate through silver jewelry the hidden treasures of your artistic experience. Below is the Bulb necklace, made of silver.

Plus, you will never get acknowledgement for your work unless you first acknowledge it yourself.

Have a look at Nicola’s Sin collection, a great example of narrative means to expression in jewelry design.

Don’t forget to check his sister’s wonderful illustrations used in his jewelry, the sky’s the limit!.

Nicolas, thank you so much for sharing your work. Wishing you further success!

You can see all his work and more at: www.amarillojoyas.com and at: www.flickr.com/photos/amarillojoyas/sets/

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