Rodney Paiva Ramos

Cores da Mata

Jewellery maker

©Biojoias Cores da Mata

Braving the path of bio-jewellery in the Amazon

Rodney makes jewellery from repurposed seeds, nut shells and wood waste
In 2012, one of her necklaces won a UNESCO award
She teaches community workshops to empower towards entrepreneurship in the Amazon

In 2004, when Rodney Paiva Ramos found herself unemployed, she seized the opportunity to develop her craft skills and entrepreneurship by creating bio-jewellery with seeds. During the first eight years, she faced several setbacks, which served as motivation for her to persevere. Her efforts paid off in 2012 when her Cores da Mata necklace won second place in the UNESCO Excellence Award. This achievement inspired her to name her workshop Cores da Mata and fueled her passion for creating sustainable jewellery and home decor pieces. Rodney’s materials reflect the Amazon’s cultural heritage, its rich resources, and indigenous traditions. She sources her materials ethically and sustainably. Açaí seeds are repurposed and the wood used is a by-product of carpentry works. "I see bio-jewellery as part of the local culture and a creative business opportunity in the Amazon," says Rodney.

Interview

©Biojoias Cores da Mata

©Biojoias Cores da Mata

Can you explain the cultural value of the seeds you use?: The raw materials alone speak volumes about my bio-jewellery. Their origins reflect the richness and diversity of the region's resources. The jarina seed, known as vegetable ivory, and the açaí seed both come from a palm tree typical of the Amazon. These seeds, once considered waste, are now processed.
What is your work process?: Each piece has a unique design due to the distinct characteristics of the raw materials. The seeds and wood are collected and treated to prevent decay and ensure durability. After sanding, polishing, and dyeing, each piece is assembled using weaving techniques, creating a one-of-a-kind item.
How do you ensure sustainable and ethical sourcing?: The açaí fruit is widely consumed in the Amazon, making the seeds abundant and often discarded. Other seeds are collected sustainably, ensuring natural propagation of native species. The woods I use are byproducts from licensed carpentries using legally obtained wood. These measures make the bio-jewellery environmentally considerate.
Is there a moment of great pride you could share?: Recently, a client from Rio de Janeiro, who carries my products in her store, shared that she was very impressed by the design, quality, and aroma of the pieces. She said they allowed her to truly 'feel' the essence of the Amazon rainforest. This feedback aligns perfectly with my mission to capture the spirit of the Amazon.

Rodney Paiva Ramos is a master artisan: she began her career in 2004 and she started teaching in 2012