Who Are We?

Maya translates to “Love” in Nepalese language. Maya is treasured by each one of us. We are Maya Handicrafts Jewelry designed and made with Maya, an ethical Nepali brand offering a wide range of authentic silver jewelry collection to be treasured by you. Our silver jewelry has its own stories to tell and stories to create with you!

Who Are Our Makers and What Do We Offer?

We support and acknowledge the aptitudes of local artisans who utilize their inherited skills to create various unique pieces of jewelry. Each jewelry is handcrafted by silversmiths of Nepal who symbolizes the high level of competence and array of skills of Nepalese artists and craftsmen which has been handed down from numerous generations. Their precision is illustrated in all fine pieces and designs of our collection which are offered in three categories:

Traditional Jewelry: We offer jewelry with traditional designs that have been adorned by several past generations. The traditional pieces have a distinctive touch with its own story associated which we try to share amongst you through our platform. We envision promoting these pieces amongst the current generation, assuring the designs are not overlooked but valued in the years to come.

Fusion Jewelry: Our brand specializes in modifying antic design and concepts with a creative modern touch. The alluring designs and concepts are influenced by both eastern and western worlds that synchronize in our collection. These designs are brought into life in our jewelry collection that can be flaunted by anyone.

Contemporary Collection: Inspiration can be derived from anywhere, anything and anyone. We are constantly inspired by myriad of designs or notions from multiple sources, even you. Contemporary designs are something that you spontaneously have an idea about. The collection from contemporary offers several designs embedded with stones, or other materials versatile to be paired with your outfit.

Our Journey

In 2018, Sameer Shakya and Yasmin Brouwer embarked on their journey to establish Maya Handicrafts Jewelry. We started by showcasing only ten items at Timro Concept Store, Lalitpur. Upon receiving constructive feedbacks from our clientele, we started participating in the local markets and also sold our products online for a year. Three years down the lane, our products are available in our own outlet in the heart of Kathmandu, Lazimpat.

Story of Founders:

Sameer Shakya, CEO, MHJ

Sameer comes from a family of jewelers. His interest, therefore, has always been inclined towards jewelry business and already has had connections with local silversmiths and goldsmiths. He currently operates two jewelry stores in Kathmandu offering gold and silver ornaments. Also, Sameer manages the internal business affairs of Maya Handicrafts Jewelry. His expertise lies in business management, therefore, he drives the brand from his business perspective. He strives to promote the brand and manage finance, human resources, and communications.

Yasmin Brouwer, Creative Director, MHJ

Yasmin Brouwer is originally from the Netherlands, settled in Kathmandu. She serves as Creative Director at Maya Handicrafts Jewelry and is the zeal of the brand. Yasmin has been making a mark in the silver jewelry business alongside her husband Sameer. She got her aspiration after coming across these unique pieces of traditional jewelry showcased at Sameer’s shop. Later, Yasmin created modern designs of jewelry, synchronizing two worlds which are reflected in the jewelry of Maya Handicrafts.