Ten Thousand Villages

A garnet stone rests at the center of the Carry My Heart Pendant (pictured above), a sterling silver necklace entirely handmade using basic tools. For Nepalese artisans, traditional jewelry-making skills become an opportunity for employment that includes medical benefits and children’s scholarships. “There are hearts behind this jewelry," says Kancha Shakya, a Nepalese metalsmith, with immense pride.