​ARAYA...

It all started by stringing beads onto colourful cords to make my own 'stand out' jewellery and accessories; wanting a different look for my everyday outfits... sometimes to dress up for special events.

Long time back...
People: 'oh, I love your necklace, where did you get it from?'  
​Me: I made it myself! (with pride :P) People: 'Oh nice'
People: 'Do you sell them?'    Me: 'mm.. <Aha moment!>… Yes, I do, I'll make you one!
 - It was like saying 'YES' to the love of my life...

The designs evolved from using glass beads, base metal charms and cords, to incorporating gorgeous pearls and superb gemstones onto fine threads and metals... I fell in love with pearls and gemstones.

ARAYA?  Mmn long story… It is a beautiful coastal town in the country of Venezuela, where I was born.
The Araya Peninsula overlooks the well know Venezuelan Islands: Coche, Cubagua and a little bit to the north-east, Margarita where the natural pearling industry thrived back in the early 1500's . 
I am sure Queen Isabella I of Castille (Spain) had lots of Venezuelan pearls in her jewellery box!

The marvelous creations of mother nature (apart from us, right?) from the waters and the earth, are the main elements used in the concepts of the designs of my vibrant and bespoke accessories.

​I think pearls and gems are to be worn and celebrated every day by the young ones and those young at heart.
As a gemmologist and pearl grader, I personally hand pick the gemstones and pearls,  design and craft every single piece by hand and... passion as the secret ingredient… oops! I just said it.. 

The magic unfolds inside my workshop in sunny Queensland, Australia.. In case you are wondering.

Without more to say, I would like to invite you to browse into my Jewellery Box and dare to wear different!

Maria Dao
Founder of Araya Pearls and Gems

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