Maryam Khatami – Jewelry as Art, Freedom, and Courage

At Maralkunst, we believe jewelry is more than adornment — it is a canvas, a story, and a reflection of the artist’s soul. That belief comes to life beautifully in the work of Maryam Khatami, a 68-year-old Iranian painter whose artistic journey took an unexpected turn over a decade ago.

Maryam’s path into jewelry making began “by playful accident.” Captivated by the beauty of stones and gems, she soon found herself immersed in the craft, earning a professional certificate in jewelry making and gemstone cutting. For Maryam, creating jewelry is like painting — each piece is a composition of form, texture, and emotion.

Art Without Boundaries

Maryam’s work is unapologetically unique. She is drawn to raw, natural stones (rough stones) and asymmetrical designs that emphasize individuality. Her creations often feature silver, wirework, soldering, patina on copper (with fire and acid), beadwork, and recycled silver transformed into new life. She calls this “Rebirth” — giving discarded fragments a second chance as striking, unconventional jewelry.

These are not pieces that follow commercial norms. They are deformed, asymmetric, expressive, even avant-garde. And that is precisely the point.

 

Creating for the Heart — and for Courage

Maryam makes jewelry for three reasons:

1. For her own heart — because beauty, challenge, and creativity are essential to her being.

2. For the joy of creation — crafting is meditative and freeing.

3. To inspire courage in others — she wants people to dare to wear art that is different, personal, and bold.

Her pieces are often show-stoppers at markets and exhibitions. Many visitors admire them deeply, though not everyone has the courage to buy non-classic, asymmetrical designs. Still, those who do become loyal collectors.

 

Staying True to Her Vision

Maryam refuses to compromise her artistic identity for sales. She believes an artist should present their own vision and invite people into it — not dilute it to fit expectations. At the same time, she values input from her audience, often incorporating ideas that align with her expressive style.

Even during challenging times, like the pandemic in Iran when exhibitions came to a halt, Maryam continued creating. Her commitment to making art “free, unbound, spontaneous, and without glitter” is a quiet rebellion against conformity in the jewelry world.

 

A Bridge Between Artist and Admirer

Maryam Khatami’s creations reflect everything we celebrate at Maralkunst — handcrafted jewelry, slow fashion, and the beauty of one-of-a-kind design. Our role is not to “own” her art, but to be the bridge between her vision and those who will truly cherish it: collectors, artists, designers, and even celebrities who seek more than just adornment.

We believe these pieces belong in the hands of people who understand the value of authentic craftsmanship — those who want to carry a story, a culture, and a fragment of an artist’s soul.

Through Maralkunst, Maryam’s work meets the world — not as a product, but as wearable art for those who dare to be different.

 

Examples from Her Collection

1. Silver Earrings with Geometric Shapes & African Turquoise

A bold, architectural composition in silver, brought to life with the vibrant touch of African turquoise beads.

2. Nature-Inspired Pearl Earrings

Pieces that begin with a simple inspiration from nature — like the form of a clover leaf — and transform into silver creations accented with pearls.

3. Asymmetrical Silver Earrings with Blue and Red Sapphires

Almost sculptural in form, these earrings combine uncut red rubies, deep blue sapphires, and pearls, celebrating natural irregularities.

4. Silver Wire Earrings with Sapphire Stones & Matching Necklace

An intricate web of silver wire holding an array of colored sapphires, paired with a 40 cm silver chain adorned with sapphire beads.

5. Statement Silver Earrings with Pink Tourmaline and Pearls

A harmonious mix of raw tourmaline and delicate pearls, creating contrast between strength and softness.

6. Dramatic Silver Earrings with Blue Sapphires & Red Beads

Abstract, almost avant-garde shapes that bring movement and boldness to the wearer’s style.

7. Leaf-Inspired Silver Earrings with Pearl Drops

Minimal yet expressive, with hammered silver leaf forms finished with a single pearl accent.

 

✨ Because true art doesn’t just decorate life — it transforms it.

Follow and support Maryam Khatami’s journey on Instagram: jewelry_marit

Join the movement — celebrate authentic handmade jewelry, support independent artists, and be part of a community that values craftsmanship, culture, and creativity.