05.03.2021
Continuing Our Legacy: The Ohrid Pearls Tradition Passed Down from Grandfather to Father
Continuing Our Legacy: The Ohrid Pearls Tradition Passed Down from Grandfather to Father
As we mentioned earlier, the Kajak.mk team is dedicating the
month of March to the women of Macedonia who make small contributions with
significant impact on the development of domestic tourism. Today, our traveling
caravan is in Ohrid, where we are sharing the story of Marija Fileva. Her
family is known for creating the unique Ohrid pearls that adorn many women
around the world.
Marija states that producing the Ohrid pearl is a family
tradition that she and her brother Dimitrija continue today, as the fourth
generation of masters carrying on this legacy.
For nearly five years, they have been dedicated to designing
modern jewelry pieces featuring the Ohrid pearl. They create a variety of
jewelry types, showcasing the essence of Macedonia as a center for jewelry
craftsmanship.
To create Ohrid pearls, scales from the "Plashica"
fish, which are found in the stunning Lake Ohrid, are utilized. Using a special
technology that Marija claims is a family secret, the fish are processed until
the desired final result is achieved.
Foreign tourists are thrilled by the jewelry and the extensive variety of products and designs available to them. They are captivated by the ongoing commitment to preserving this rich tradition.
What sets these pieces apart is the use of traditional techniques, such as filigree.
In addition to their craftsmanship, tourists are also
impressed by the interior of the shop. The unique design enhances the
experience, telling the story of the artisanship on display. The shop features
intricate walnut and wood carvings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of
the people, city, and country.
In their family, there is no gender inequality, and the
stereotype that the craft is passed down only to male children does not apply.
In their workshop, all the children learned the craft from their father, Pavel.
He, in turn, learned the craft from his father, Mikhail, continuing a tradition
that has been passed down through generations.
Marija states that pearls are part of their tradition, along
with filigree, which their father introduced. She mentions that they are making
significant efforts to promote Ohrid and its lake pearls. Marija believes that
many countries are already familiar with these pearls, as evidenced by the
orders they have been receiving from around the world.
This shows that there are still people in Macedonia who
appreciate tradition. This is something for which Macedonians can be proud
globally.
You can easily find their products on their Facebook page by clicking HERE.
March 8th is approaching—women, mothers, and girls... What’s
your story? Share it with us at [email protected].
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