Discover the Kapwa Kollection
JEWELRY INSPIRED BY FILIPINO HERITAGE
Celebrate the beauty and resilience of Filipino culture with the Kapwa Kollection—a stunning selection of handcrafted jewelry, amulets, and talismans. Each piece is inspired by sacred symbols, indigenous tattoo motifs, and ancestral designs, transforming tradition into timeless, wearable art.
✨ Honor your roots with a piece that tells a story. Explore the collection today!✨
A LEGACY AWAKENED
During colonization, much of the Philippines' gold jewelry, amulets, and talismans were stolen, melted down, or desecrated—leaving a heartbreaking void in our cultural heritage. Yet, our stories of strength and unity endure. The Kapwa Kollection is a tribute to this unyielding spirit, bringing sacred objects back to life, even some in solid gold, to represent our shared resilience.
GOLD IS OUR ANCESTRAL INHERITANCE
Gold has always held spiritual significance for Filipinos. Our ancestors believed it enhanced the soul's goodness and protected against malevolent spirits when worn near the body's orifices, like the nose and ears. It was a vessel for ancestral spirits, embodying both beauty and divine connection.
Despite the exploitation of our resources and attempts to erase our traditions, Filipinos and other indigenous people around the globe remain unbroken. Each piece in this collection is a celebration of our enduring spirit—shining proof that we are still here, connected to our roots, and thriving. We are Solid Gold.
The Meaning of Kapwa
"Kapwa," a Tagalog word often translated as "neighbor" or "self-in-the-other," embodies the Filipino worldview of interconnection and shared identity. It’s a reminder of our interdependence and collective strength—values deeply rooted in indigenous Filipino culture and revived through decolonizing efforts.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Samonte Cruz is first generation Filipino-American and has ancestry from various regions of the Philippines, including Malabon, Illocos, Calabarzon, the Visayas, Bicol, Cagayan and the Cordillleras. Learn more about their journey to becoming a Filipinx Goldsmith HERE.
A Heartfelt Thank You from the Artist
I want to express my deepest gratitude to two incredible inspirations: Julay Nieto of Sacred Spirit Ink and Julz Bolinayen (@bulambulanen). Your dedication to preserving and celebrating our culture and traditions is truly invaluable. If you have the chance, I encourage you to support their amazing work. Thank you both for the knowledge you’ve shared and the inspiration you continue to provide.
Also, a big thank you to Lane Wilckan (@lanewilcken) whose books on Filipino tattooing and legends serve as invaluable guides for those of us committed to honoring and preserving our heritage. Your work serves as a both a road map & guiding light in our journey to preserve and celebrate our culture.
