Seminar on Chanthaburi Identity Jewellery: A Narrative Through Wisdom and Time from Past to Present
The International Chanthaburi Gems and Jewellery Festival 2024 provided an ideal platform to explore the rich and evolving heritage of Chanthaburi jewellery. Recognising the unique cultural significance embedded within local creations, particularly the celebrated garnet necklaces and the ingeniously crafted puzzle rings, a seminar titled “Chanthaburi Identity Jewellery: A Narrative Through Wisdom and Time from Past to Present” was organised. Led by Burapha University lecturers Teeravut Suthiprabha and Saharat Na-Nan (faculty members of the Gem and Jewellery Business Department, Faculty of Gems, Burapha University, Chanthaburi Campus), in collaboration with Chanthaburi’s esteemed puzzle ring master, Mr. Chukiat Niamthong, the session aimed to illuminate the journey of this artisanal tradition. From its early expressions using organic materials to the sophisticated use of precious metals today, the seminar underscored the intrinsic connection between local wisdom, available resources, and compelling narratives that define Chanthaburi’s distinctive jewellery identity, with a specific focus on the challenges posed by imitation in the puzzle ring market.
The primary objectives of the seminar were to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the historical development and unique characteristics of Chanthaburi jewellery, from its organic origins to its contemporary forms in precious metals. A key focus was to highlight the distinctive local identities embodied in pieces such as garnet necklaces and puzzle rings, emphasising the local wisdom, materials, and narratives woven into their creation. Furthermore, the seminar aimed to educate participants on the challenges of imitation, specifically within the puzzle ring market, and to showcase innovative strategies, such as the incorporation of family names into complex designs, to preserve the authenticity and distinctiveness of these handcrafted pieces, ultimately promoting an appreciation for the artistry and dedication inherent in Chanthaburi’s jewelry tradition.
Puzzle rings, in particular, represent a unique identity rooted in local wisdom, materials, and narratives, exemplified by designs such as crab rings, fish rings, and shrimp rings. These rings feature intricate mechanisms, composed of multiple interconnected ring segments that form a single ring. Incorrect assembly renders the ring unwearable. Consequently, the jewellery market has witnessed instances of puzzle ring design imitation. To combat this, efforts have been made to develop more intricate and challenging designs, making them difficult to replicate and market. This approach has led to the innovative integration of family names into puzzle ring designs, creating personalised and distinctive pieces for the wearer. Furthermore, all creations are handcrafted. The lecture concluded with a discussion on the philosophy of approaching jewellery making with love and dedication, emphasising that such a commitment will sustain and reward the artisan.
Attendees gained valuable knowledge and insights from the seminar on the history and evolution of local Chanthaburi jewellery, spanning from the era of organic materials to the use of precious metals. They acquired an in-depth understanding of distinctive local identities, such as garnet necklaces and puzzle rings, handcrafted pieces that embody local wisdom, materials, and stories. Furthermore, participants learned about strategies to prevent puzzle ring imitation through the development of complex designs incorporating family names, as well as the principle of creating valuable and sustainable jewellery through love and dedication.
Project Leader: Lecturer Teeravut Suthiprabha, Faculty of Gems