Creating from the Heart
My love of gemstones and rocks started as a child, exploring the natural environment in my neighborhood. I remember digging in a ravine near my home and finding different colored quartz and was just blown away by these little treasures . I was fascinated that the Earth held such a beautiful thing. Little did I know the amazing array of gemstones awaiting my discovery!!
Later in life I revisited my love affair with gemstones and studied their physical, metaphysical and healing properties. I was intrigued with the process of how these beautiful stones are created deep inside the earth, and was interested to learn about their possible healing attributes.
In the midst of a life change, I was given the most wonderful opportunity to manage a high end fashion boutique in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, NC which acquainted me with some very talented jewelry designers. My favorite part of the job was learning about their process and style - I loved every minute of it! Once again, this experience just served to reinforce how passionate I was about gemstones.
All of these life experiences ignited a passion in me for jewelry design. Inspired to create, I took a leap of faith and decided to combine my creativity, experience and LOVE of gemstones to launch my jewelry company, Blue Lotus Design!
My inspiration comes from NATURE, reflected in my use of high quality natural and semi-precious beads and metals. World cultures and religious iconography also influence my designs. I incorporate handmade, high content Silver (99.5-99.8%) pieces from the Karen Hill Tribe of Thailand in my designs, and also intricate and detailed beads from Bali. I have always been fascinated with religious iconography, which inspired the "Grace Collection" - where gemstones combine with vintage/antique holy medals to create one-of-a-kind, wearable works of art.
In a world seemingly saturated with chains and "superstores" it's become increasingly important to support small business owners and artisans, which are the source of the majority of my materials. Both my father and grandfather were small business owners, so I have an understanding of the importance of supporting these people in the local community and the global marketplace whenever possible.
I truly hope you enjoy the designs in my shop. I put a tremendous amount of love and care into my creations, and I hope you feel that LOVE and dedication wearing my handcrafted pieces!
Thanks for stopping by to take a peek!
Kristine Martucci
Owner
