When you associate Mexico with jewellery there are certain materials that come to mind, such as feathers and bronze. Designer Ana Saldana draws on her Aztec ancestry for inspiration and incorporates the story of this ancient tribe into her work, using materials such as these to keep her pieces true to the original tribe’s convictions.
For this creator it’s all about keeping things basic and simple, but most importantly real. She draws further inspiration from, as she herself puts it, “the union between Father Sky and Mother Earth”, a very romantic notion.
Based in California, Ana’s ethnic look is simple and easy to wear for all occasions. Every one of her pieces tells a story about a time far beyond our time. For instance, take a look at this pyrite ring appropriately named “Gold Rush”, which looks like it has been rediscovered from all those years ago.
When most people think of an American Indian headdress, the first image that comes to mind is a full eagle-feather warbonnet like the Lakota Sioux below. Keeping this image in mind, Ana was inspired to create the “Father Sky” earrings, paying tribute to the men who wore this headdress, and truly reminiscent of the old headwear.
From all her pieces, I personally find this “Slave Bracelet” the most intriguing and ingenious of designs. This cuff bracelet is linked to the ring and pays homage to the Cheveyo, meaning spirit warrior.
With such romantic, deeply rooted cultural work, Ana’s collections have become such a phenomenal success that you can find her on numerous websites plus many different outlets.
Everything can be found on her website by clicking here.
Pooja Sahny
