The artisans behind Mayana: Where every piece truly begins

The hands behind our designs

The magic of our designs comes to life in Medellín, Colombia, where every Mayana piece is handwoven by our talented team of women artisans. This is where ideas turn into reality—slowly, carefully, and with intention.

Each artisan invests hours of patience into every piece. After testing different techniques to working through multiple prototypes in our Medellin design studio, thousands of tiny beads are woven one by one, always with purpose. This thoughtful process is what gives each design its character and soul.

Strength, resilience, and shared stories.

Many of the women who bring Mayana to life are single mothers or members of the displaced Indigenous Embera community—women who have faced challenges that go far beyond what most people will ever experience.

At Mayana, we believe that meaningful work can open doors. Through fair wages, bead-weaving training, and long-term, stable work opportunities, our artisans are able to support their families and regain a sense of independence and confidence in their craft.

A collaborative process built on trust

Once a design and initial prototype are created by Mayana Designs, the role of our artisans becomes essential. From that point on, everything is built together.Our artisans work closely with the Mayana team through constant communication and collaboration. We come together to review designs, share guidance, and offer training when needed. At the same time, we learn from their experience, techniques, and ways of working.

This two-way exchange allows the process to flow naturally. Every piece carries that extra layer of commitment that comes from teamwork, respect, and shared responsibility.

Creating with care — for people and their time

We care deeply about the well-being of the women who work with us. At Mayana, flexibility matters. We want our artisans to feel motivated, valued, and free to manage their time in a way that fits their lives.

We believe that honoring handcrafted work also means supporting a healthy balance between work and personal life. When artisans are able to care for their families, their communities, and themselves, the quality of their work—and their lives—truly improves.

More than jewelry

When you wear Mayana, you’re wearing more than a design.

You’re wearing a story shaped by collaboration, patience, and purpose.

Every piece reflects the hands, time, and heart of the women who made it—and that is what makes it truly special.