Anton and Bali Jewelry Studio: Crafting The Mythical Figures of Bali™ with Precision and Tradition
When I first set out to create The Mythical Figures of Bali™ collection, I knew that finding the right partner was critical. I contacted five different silversmith studios, each with their own strengths, but I was looking for something more than just technical ability. I needed a craftsman who not only had mastery over traditional techniques but also the ability to seamlessly integrate modern tools into the process. It was a challenging search, but when I met Anton from Bali Jewelry Studio, I immediately knew he was the right choice.
What set Anton apart from the others was his personal approach and dedication to the artistry of jewelry-making. While other studios offered high-quality production, Anton took the time to understand the deeper meaning behind the designs, the myths, and the stories they represented. He wasn’t just looking to craft pieces; he wanted to ensure that each one embodied the spirit of Bali’s mythology.
Once I selected Anton, we sent him the rubber molds created from the initial brass master models. This was where Anton’s true craftsmanship came into play. Using these molds, he began by injecting them with molten wax, creating wax replicas of the designs. These wax models were assembled onto a wax tree, a process that requires precision, as any imperfection in the wax would carry over into the final piece.
From there, Anton used the lost-wax casting technique—a process as old as jewelry-making itself. He encased the wax tree in plaster and, after heating it to melt the wax away, poured molten sterling silver into the mold. This was where our mythology-inspired designs started to take their final form, but Anton knew that silver alone wasn’t enough. Each piece needed to be carefully polished and oxidized to enhance the details. The oxidization gave depth to the intricate figures, making the design elements pop and giving the jewelry a timeless, vintage look.
One of the final touches Anton added was the laser engraving of the Mythical Figures of Bali™ logo on the back of each charm. This wasn’t just a mark of authenticity; it was a testament to the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology that defines this collection. Anton’s ability to balance these two worlds—age-old techniques and cutting-edge innovations—was a huge part of why I chose him over the other silversmiths.
But the process didn’t stop with the creation of the silver pieces. Once the figures were complete, Anton moved on to assemble the bracelets. He carefully combined the silver charms with the braided navy-blue cords and genuine leather straps, ensuring each bracelet was not only elegant but also durable and comfortable to wear. His experience with these materials ensured that the final product was balanced and refined, fitting perfectly with the luxury feel of the collection.
Beyond production, Anton took care of the packaging and distribution as well. He meticulously packaged each bracelet in custom-designed black tubes lined with velvet cushions, ensuring that the unboxing experience felt as special as the jewelry itself. And thanks to Anton’s local connections, our collection made its way into the souvenir shops of 4-5 star hotels in Ubud, where travelers and locals alike could purchase these handcrafted treasures. For those outside of Bali, Anton also managed global shipping, making sure that customers from around the world could experience the craftsmanship of Bali in their own hands.
Choosing Anton after evaluating several other studios was one of the best decisions I made for this collection. His dedication to quality, his deep understanding of both the technical and artistic sides of jewelry-making, and his personal connection to the project made him the perfect partner. Anton didn’t just make jewelry—he helped bring these mythical figures to life, ensuring that each piece was a reflection of Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Working with Anton has been a true collaboration, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the role he’s played in making The Mythical Figures of Bali™ a reality.