Silver Factory Bali
Bali, ‘Island of the Gods’ ould also be known as ‘Island of Silver’. Bali is home to a number of artisan jewelers and silver makers, and as such, on your next visit to Bali, make some time in your schedule to learn the ancient art of Silver making. In particular, the cultural town of Ubud and nearby villages offers a variety of workshops for you to develop your creative prowess. If you have ever been curious about the techniques and processes of silver jewellery making, then book a tour at a silver factory Bali for an up-close experience of unique craftsmanship blended with the warmest hospitality only Bali can offer.
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The Balinese clans of silver and goldsmiths have been practicing the art of creating sophisticated items for rituals, fine jewelry and temple heirlooms for centuries. Despite the long tradition, their innate crafting techniques (which are passed down from generation to generation) and explicit designs continue to evolve with time. These special silver and gold communities are primarily located in the Gianyar regency villages, particularly Mas, Ubud, and Celuk. Many feature showrooms adjacent to their workshops which welcome you to witness first-hand the process of creation, while some even go further to even handing you their tweezers, wireworks, and silver beads to help you get in on this art where you can even create your own pieces as souvenirs.
The jewelers employ traditional techniques to craft their exclusive silverwork style. This unique style can be traced back to Southeast Asian and Southern Chinese artisans with many of the contemporary motifs and patterns in recent times sharing a similar design. Balinese metal smiths are commonly referred to as ‘Pandai’, a phrase which means both clever and smith. It is believed that the original Pandais learned their art from the gods who were sent down to the universe to instill in humans, the art of civil behavior.
The unique jewelry features two prominent traditions – mainly Javanese and Balinese cultures. The silversmiths usually make use of small silver spheres organized in complex patterns on an exclusive silver background, a distinctive technique known as granulation. With this unique technique, Balinese silver makers are able to create complex and eye-catching patterns that not only set their pieces apart but also render them a popular export across the globe.
The Island is packed with numerous top jewelry designing centers and what better way to experience and learn this amazing art than touring one of the best silver factories, Chez Monique. While here, you not only have the chance to attend a brief showroom and workshop tour, you can even get in on the action and learn the exquisite silver making art, from granulation, soldering, down to the final act of polishing.
Founded by a renowned silver craftsman by the name Wayan Sunarta, Chez Monique, Ubud is among the most renowned silver making workshops in Bali you need to check into. Aside from creating the precious items, it is also among the select few places to have opened special classes that allow anyone looking to learn the jewelry making art. In just a few hours, this workshop allows you to master and practice this amazing art. The Balinese owner, aside from founding this workshop, is also the overseer of the special classes and a mentor for the silver jewelry making hopefuls. In all simplicity, the Chez Monique offers a completely different way for you to experience and enjoy your Bali vacation.
Chez Monique workshop is situated on Jalan Dewi Sita. From the outside, the complex looks like a Balinese family home. Listen carefully however, and you’ll hear the sounds of silversmiths crafting their latest pieces.
On arriving at the workshop, you are ushered into the exquisite setting by none other than the workshop founder, Mr. Wayan Sunarta. He leads an able team of professional silversmiths who not only craft the unique jewelry pieces, but also introduce you to, and guide you through the art of silver making. Their calm demeanor and warm personalities will instantly put you at ease and inspire your curiosity.
Book your tour to Chez Monique with Bali Tours and More. Because the tour includes making your own jewelry, the final charge is subject to the overall complexity of your design, and the total quantity (in grams) of the silver you utilize.
After introductions, the tour around the workshop will take you to a brief session where you can interact with the various assortments of molds, templates, and designs in numerous books featuring the various photos of each. Subsequently, you are also free to pick up a pen and a paper to craft your own design.
Be inspired by the existing designs, your imagination, the stunning scenery and culture of Bali, as well as your interactions with other visitors to the studio to create your own unique piece of jewelry.
Finally, after your piece completed, the professionals will help you to clean, polish and even smooth all the edges of your piece. And with the experience of Wayan and his professional team of silversmiths, you are sure to come out with a true quality gem complemented by an amazing memory of the process.
Chez Monique also features special silver making classes. Unlike the workshop, the classes are held at the owner’s home compound located on Jalan Taman Sriwedari. These generally take approximately four hours, during which time you can make your own special jewelry piece. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to designs to choose from, and as soon as you pick out your preference, the three personnel in the workshop will help you structure your item to a fully developed piece. The diversity in piece options is significant and ranges from exotic bracelets, gorgeous rings, and earrings to stunning bracelets. What’s more, if you have any design beyond the simple patterns, you will be pleased to learn that they are also received with open arms.
Bali is simply but a wonder to marvel. It is home to spectacular natural sceneries, clear blue waters, mind-blowing active volcanoes, inordinate landscapes, and a rich culture. However, there is much more the great island has to offer, and the art of silver making is one such surprise package. Don’t just spend your time at Bali relaxing, learn a thing or two and have a souvenir to take back home courtesy of a tour to a silver making workshop.
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