Issue 12 : 15 Sept 2014

Winner of the Ploi Thai Jewelry Creation 2014 award at the of 54thBangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, Dhevan Dara Gallery owner Natthapunnapa Nantapatanapin talks to Horizon Thailand in an exclusive interview about the competition and the Thai jewelry industry.

Dhevan Dara’s masterpiece embraces the importance of Thai culture, econ-omy and social life.

How would you describe Dhevan Dara?
Our products are mainly silver designs and created as “one of a kind” pieces by hand. They reflect the aesthetic of Thai’s craftsmanship.

How did you join the Ploi Thai Jewelry Creation?
We are members of the Thai Gem & Jewelry Traders Association (TJGTA) and they informed us about the competition to allow young Thai designers and artisans showcase their skills and come up with the very best Ploi Thai (coloured stones) jewelry. Besides, the concept of this competition was silver, and we have been involved in silver design for jewelry for eight years.

Can you tell us about your piece ‘Thailand the Centre of AEC’ that has been selected to be one of the Best Designs?
The purpose of ASEAN is to connect all member countries in terms of the economy, society, culture and politics, and Thailand is one of the leaders that set up ASEAN. The inspiration is for this jewelry to represent the importance of Thai culture, economy and social life. For example, we use elephants, orchids, the image of Buddha, the number nine in Thai script and the symbol of AEC in our artwork to reflect Thai’s nationality, religion and monarchy as well as its linkage to AEC.

What has been the reception to the project?
Since winning the competition, the feedback has been good. We have more contacts from buyers and have been recognised more in public.

What is the potential for Thailand’s jewelry industry?
I think Thailand is still the world’s gem and jewelry hub. We have craftsmanship and creativity. Even though the cost of labour is not as cheap as in China and India, Thailand is still the first choice for buyers from the EU or US. We have good designs and good quality and our Ploi (gems) are still well accepted. 

What are your plans for 2015?
New lineups of our silver designs are in the developing process. As jewellery and gems with the oriental pattern will be a thing for 2015, you can anticipate for our new designs, so please stay tune. I am willing to participate in more events like the Ploi Thai competition, as it is one of a good ways to find new markets, to find buyers and to be acknowledged of any possible channels.

For more information, please visit www.dhevandaragallery.com