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Soledad Borel
Soledad Borel is a Chilean artisan who has lived in Costa Rica for many years. <br><br>
"Beginning in the mid-1990s, I have designed and crafted my jewelry independently in my home workshop. In addition to silver, and occasionally gold, I use semi-precious stones and natural materials, such as wood and glass aged by the sea. The stones, ceramics, metals, fabrics and other 'discarded' materials combine in an original and harmonious way. <br><br>
"Since I was little, I've loved this world. I always saw my mom's jewelry, many of which my dad gave her as a gift from his travels around the world. Her main taste was ethnic jewelry. <br><br>
"When I lived in Africa, I became interested in jewelry from the countries in which I lived, and I bought many beads to make my own necklaces. In 1990, I wanted to improve my skills and I had the opportunity to take courses with Sue Goldgewicht, a goldsmith who had her workshop near the University of Costa Rica, where I learned the basics of metallurgy, welding and other techniques. While applying this knowledge in my first projects, I continued taking several more advanced workshops, for example <i>mokume,</i> <i>agua fuerte</i> and filigree. <br><br>
"Ever since then, this has been my passion. I have set up a small workshop in my home, There, I have specialized tools and a complete wardrobe of beads and diverse materials, many of which I collected on beaches and roads. I love traveling the world and seeing so many wonders that can be expressed in my jewelry. That is where I get my biggest inspiration. Every day we can appreciate different scenes with the wonder of nature. I usually have several projects going simultaneously, from the initial drawing, cutting the gemstones and sheets, welding, polishing and retouching. <br><br>
"Traveling has opened my eyes. I've been in places like Ethiopia and Nigeria where life is very hard and, many times, the role of women is not appreciated. So I decided to create a cooperative of women. In the future, I hope to have a large group and teach them silver work, give workshops and make it possible for them to learn a trade where they can have a fixed income to support their families. <br><br>
"I design and create for women who value beauty and originality."
