Maize Tague Joa'i

Press Kit

Unique Properties

At the heart of this design is the Maize God, intricately crafted from deep green Guatemala Jade, one of the rarest and most treasured jades, embodying the spiritual and cultural essence of Maya mythology. Surrounded by semi-translucent petals symbolizing renewal and growth, the figure pays tribute to the cycle of life and abundance. Accented with 18K gold plating, the design elevates this sacred figure into a wearable work of art, doubling as both a hair ornament and sculptural piece.

Dimensions & Packaging

Width 50 mm* Depth 36 mm* Height 200 mm

Tags

Jade, Gold, Maya, Guatemala, Jewelry, Hair

Production Technology

The creation process combined advanced 3D modeling with modern CNC machining to carve the delicate Guatemala jade components with precision. Artisans crafted and seamlessly applied the 18K gold plate, ensuring they complemented the jade's natural beauty. Each piece was carefully polished to enhance the vibrant colors and textures of both Guatemala jade and gold, reflecting the highest standards of craftsmanship and blending innovation with tradition.

Design Challenge

Crafting this jewelry piece involved significant challenges due to its intricate design and the precision required for every component. From the Guatemala Jade petals to the Maize God figure and the thin, elongated stick, each element demanded exceptional skill and innovative carving techniques. For example, the petals broke multiple times during the carving process, highlighting the difficulty of achieving such fine detail. These challenges were overcome through persistence and expert craftsmanship.

Research

The research delved into the profound connection between the Maya civilization's history, the cultural significance of Guatemala Jade, and the geographical roots of the design. The Maize God, central to Maya sacred beliefs, embodies themes of life, rebirth, and agricultural abundance. Guatemala Jade, sourced from the same region where these beliefs originated, was studied for its historical and symbolic relevance. This exploration bridged the sacred traditions of the Maya with the natural richness of their homeland.

Inspiration

Inspired by the Maya “Maize God Emerging from a Flower”, symbolizing the cycles of life, rebirth, and abundance. The design transforms the iconic imagery of the Maize God into a modern, wearable form, reflecting the spiritual connection between nature and humanity. Utilizing Guatemala jade as the main jewelry piece to honor its ancient history, a material deeply tied to the region's cultural heritage.

Project Duration

The project started in November 2023 in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. The item piece is crafted from March 2024 and finished in October 2024.

Operation Flow

The jewelry invites both personal and visual interaction. The smooth, polished jade and radiant gold elements enhance its tactile appeal, creating an engaging sensory experience. Light interacts beautifully with the semi-translucent jade petals, casting soft reflections onto the deep green Maize God figure at the center. This dynamic interplay transforms the piece into more than just jewelry, it becomes a profound expression of individuality, heritage, and cultural storytelling.