Shadows of romance and passion decorate the heart-shaped pendant that decorates this faux leather cord necklace by Manvel Petrosyan. Crafted with Armenian techniques, the accessory honors love in its high-polished sterling silver details.
I hope that each of my pieces brings a sense of joy and connection to its wearer, reminding them of the artistry and history embedded within Armenian culture.
"My name is Manvel Petrosyan, and I was born in September of 1964, in Yerevan, Armenia. My journey in life has been one... of discovery and transformation, moving from engineering and factory work into the world of silversmithing—a craft that has become my passion and my true calling.
"Growing up in Armenia, I was always surrounded by rich culture and craftsmanship, which sparked a natural curiosity in me. However, my formal education took me in a different direction at first. I studied mechanical engineering at the Polytechnic Institute named after Karl Marx, where I learned the technical skills and problem-solving approaches that would serve me well in every endeavor I pursued. After graduating, I began working at the Yerevan Pop-Pump Factory in 1981, where I took on various roles, rising to the position of deputy director. This work was rewarding in its own way, as it allowed me to apply my engineering skills and gain invaluable experience in leadership and management. However, even as I advanced in the factory, I found myself drawn to the world of handcrafts, especially the art of silversmithing.
"Silversmithing fascinated me because it combines strength and beauty in such a unique way. The idea that something as tough and industrial as metal could be transformed into delicate, intricate art pieces by the hands of a skilled artisan was inspiring to me. I started experimenting with silver in my free time, learning the techniques, tools, and patience required to bring my designs to life. By 1986, my interest in silversmithing had deepened significantly, and I began to see it as more than just a hobby—it was a craft that I wanted to dedicate myself to fully.
"When the Yerevan Pop-Pump Factory eventually closed, I faced a crossroads. With my background, I could have continued in a similar industrial field, but my passion for silversmithing was calling me in a different direction. I chose to follow that calling and commit myself entirely to this art form. Making this transition was both challenging and exhilarating. Silversmithing required a completely different mindset and skill set than mechanical engineering, but I embraced it wholeheartedly, devoting myself to learning and refining my technique.
"I started presenting my silver creations at the vernissage in Yerevan, a local open-air market where artisans showcase their work. It was here that I truly began to see the impact of my craft. The positive reactions and feedback I received were both humbling and motivating. People were drawn to the authenticity and care I put into each piece, and I realized that through silversmithing, I could connect with others in a deeply meaningful way. Every piece of jewelry or ornament I created was not just an object; it was a part of me, a reflection of my journey and dedication to my craft.
"Working with silver is a deeply satisfying experience for me. Each piece begins as a simple piece of metal, and through careful shaping, engraving, and polishing, it becomes something entirely new. I find joy in every stage of the process, from designing the initial concept to the final touches that bring out the shine and detail in each piece. Crafting with silver is both meditative and challenging, requiring patience and a steady hand. The metal has its own character, and learning to work with it rather than against it has been one of the most fulfilling lessons in my life.
"Today, my life is dedicated to this art. I draw inspiration from Armenian culture, traditional motifs, and the beauty of nature. Each piece I create has a story behind it, whether it's a bracelet engraved with Armenian symbols or a pendant inspired by the landscapes of my homeland. I believe that jewelry should not only be beautiful but also meaningful, carrying with it the spirit and heritage of its origins.
"My goal as a silversmith is to continue perfecting my craft and sharing my work with others who appreciate handmade artistry. I hope that each of my pieces brings a sense of joy and connection to its wearer, reminding them of the artistry and history embedded within Armenian culture. Through silversmithing, I’ve found a way to express myself and share a piece of my heritage with the world. Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about my journey, and I hope my creations resonate with you as they do with me."
Only valid on the Normal shipping option for shipments to 48 Lower US states.
Discounted shipping price may not be applied to previous orders.
This item ships with a free artist storycard, so you can remember who you impacted today. Customized gift messages are also available with every order.
We want you to be 100% satified with your order, so if you are not completely happy with your item, you can return it within 60 days of receiving it.
We pack, ship, certify and 100% guarantee the quality of this item. Watch this video to see how.
This item is available for backorder and will ship within 2 to 8 weeks. Artists love to get backorders. Placing a backorder ensures that the artisan will do their best to create and deliver your item to our local office for shipment.
Although we cannot guarantee availability, we do expect to be able to fill the order within the timeframe indicated. But sometimes life happens - special materials may not be immediately available to the artist, or there might be some other circumstance beyond our control that could delay the shipment.
If for any reason we are unable to ship the item within the timeframe indicated, we will notify you.
In the unlikely even that we are unable to ship the item within the timeframe indicated, we will contact you and provide an updated delivery window.
This item has a special shipping flat fee which means that due to bulk, duties, or other special requirements, the item will be shipped to you via one of our special one-rate services. Shipping is only available to the United States (lower 48 States only).
WOMEN
S
M
L
XL
XXL
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
BUST
35 - 36
37 - 38
39 - 41
42 - 44
46 - 48
WAIST
27 - 28
29 - 30
31 - 33
34 - 36
38 - 40
HIPS
37 - 38
39 - 40
42 - 43
45 - 46
49 - 50
MEN
S
M
L
XL
XXL
CHEST
36 - 38
39 - 41
42 - 44
46 - 48
50 - 52
WAIST
30 - 32
32 - 34
35 - 37
38 - 41
43 - 45
NECK
14 - 14.5
15 - 15.5
16 - 16.5
17 - 17.5
18 - 18.5
SLEEVE
32.5
33.5
34.5
35.5
36.5
FINDING YOUR SIZE
Take your measurements with the tape measure over your under garments. If your measurements fall between sizes you may prefer the next larger size. Inseam, skirt and dress lengths vary by style and will be listed in the item description. Our sweaters are knit in standard American sizes, however actual measurements vary by style.
BUST / CHEST
Measure around the fullest part of chest under the arms and over the shoulder blades keeping the tape measure level.
WAIST
Measure around the smallest part of the waist keeping the tape measure comfortably loose. Most garments use the low waist measurement noted below.
LOW WAIST
Measure around the body approximately 1.5" below the natural waist (above). This is the area where most pants and skirts actually fit.
HIPS
Standing with your heels together, measure around the fullest part of the body approx 7"-8" below the waist.
NECK
Measure around the base of the neck keeping the tape measure comfortably loose.
SLEEVE
Bend elbow slightly and starting at the center back of the neck, measure across the shoulder, to the elbow and down to the wrist.
INSEAM
Our standard inseam length for women is 32" and 34" for men; however inseam measurements will vary slightly by style.
Belts with buckles are measured in inches that correspond to a waist size however, most people do not wear belts on the waist, they wear them closer to the hips. A buckle belt measurement is take from the end of the "pin" of the buckle to the middle hole on the belt. Generally there are 5 holes for size adjustment, with a 1" space between each, so the middle hole will the be average size of the belt.
For at tie belt (no buckle) measure the belt portion end to end and half of the tie portion. This again is the medium size of the belt.
For a soft fabric tie belt it can be called "1 size fits most" and the entire length of the belt should be measured and listed.
See buckle/tie belt size standards below.
WOMEN
S
M
L
XL
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
inches
26 - 30
28 - 32
31 - 35
34 - 38
38 - 42
cm
76 - 86
81.5 - 91.5
86.5 - 96.5
91.5 - 101.5
96.5 - 106.5
+/- tolerance: 0.5 inches or 1.25 cm
MEN
S
M
L
XL
XXL
inches
30 - 34
32 - 36
35 - 39
39 - 43
43 - 47
cm
81.5 - 91.5
86.5 - 96.5
91.5 - 101.5
96.5 - 106.5
109 - 119
+/- tolerance: 0.5 inches or 1.25 cm
Sash tie length
Lay sash/tie out flat away from the garment and measure from end to end.
Belt with buckle
Measure from the end of the pin of the buckle (where it touches the buckle) to the middle hole.
Belt without buckle
Measure from the belt portion end to end and half of the tie portion. This is will give you the medium size of the belt.
Download our printable ring sizing chart to find the perfect fit!
We refer to these items as "discounted wholesale". Such items carry a deeper wholesale discount than other items, and have greater potential to provide your business with healthier resale margins.
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UNICEF Market's artisan-direct prices are made possible through our partnership with NOVICA, a leading fair trade organization that works directly with artisans in remote regions around the world in many of the same communities where UNICEF has missions. NOVICA’s ten global Artisan Empowerment Hubs in Asia, Africa, and Latin America provide interest-free microcredit loans to artisans and help them bring their handmade creations directly to you.
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