We recently connected with Silvana Budge and have shared our conversation below.

Silvana, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Amazonian Treasures emerged from a blend of personal experiences and a desire to strengthen my connection with my roots. The idea started taking shape when I realized I could bring these beautiful, handcrafted pieces to a broader audience while supporting the artisans. I wanted to create something that didn’t just represent my love for the Amazon but promote sustainability, fair trade, and cultural appreciation. Amazonian Treasures became the perfect avenue to achieve all that – combining my connection to the forest with a passion for preserving and promoting Indigenous craftmanship in a way that could positively impact both artisans and the environment.

Silvana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am Silvana Budge, a Munduruku Indigenous descendant, originally from Santarém, Pará, Brazil, in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. My name, Silvana, means ‘of the forest’ in Latin, perfectly reflecting my deep connection to nature and the Amazon. I witnessed the beauty of nature and the unique craftsmanship of the Indigenous and riverside communities firsthand. Their ability to turn natural materials into beautiful art is divine. Still, I didn’t realize how rooted the Amazon was in me until I moved to the U.S. 14 years ago. Being here, I felt a strong need to not only deepen my connection with my own culture but to share it with others.

Amazonian Treasures offers handcrafted bio and eco jewelry made from natural materials like seeds, fibers, and other organic elements, all sustainably sourced from the Amazon Rainforest. Many Amazons are inside the Amazon Rainforest, so each piece reflects their cultural traditions and craftsmanship. Also, to celebrate Brazil’s different biomes and cultures, we bring eco-jewelry collections handcrafted by women artisans from other regions.

We solve a crucial concern for customers who want to wear beautiful, stylish jewelry but are also deeply worried about the environment. Each piece is carefully crafted to be durable and long-lasting, ensuring clients can cherish their jewelry for years without compromising style or value.
What truly sets Amazonian Treasures apart is our unwavering commitment to bio- and eco-friendliness and cultural preservation. Each item we offer is a unique work of art and a tangible embodiment of the Amazon’s soul and the people who bring it to life.

What I’m most proud of is how our jewelry transcends mere fashion. It symbolizes a movement towards sustainability and fair trade. Customers who purchase our pieces are not just acquiring a beautiful accessory. They are supporting the preservation of traditional crafts, the protection of the Amazon, and the empowerment of its people. Each piece of jewelry carries a piece of the forest and a story— of resilience, creativity, and an unbreakable connection to the land.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I moved to the U.S. in 2010, adapting to my new life presented many challenges, particularly in my professional journey. Back in Brazil, I had worn multiple hats across different industries, gaining diverse work experience since I was 18. Taking a break from work during the move was difficult, especially as I didn’t speak English and was unsure of my professional future direction.

I never imagined moving to another country, but my son and his father’s job brought me here. I’ve always trusted I’m where I’m meant to be, and life has shown me this by giving me opportunities to grow. One pivotal moment came when I volunteered to scan books at a farm in Versailles, where we lived. I offered my help to immerse myself in a professional environment and practice my English. The kindness and patience of the people there were transformative. After three months, the general manager needed help with spreadsheets, and I was recommended for the role. This opportunity allowed me to earn my first dollars in the U.S. and began my professional comeback.

After two years, feeling ready to explore further, I transitioned into the healthcare insurance sector. Despite my different background, I became part of a company I am incredibly proud of. This company allowed me to delve into interpreting state regulations and compliance issues, significantly expanding my professional horizons. In the middle of all this, my heart still asks how I could positively impact my people’s lives. Today, I believe Amazonian Treasures is my purpose. We are a small business with so much to learn, but we believe in the positive impact we can make on the world through the Amazonian people.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

The authenticity and passion behind Amazonian Treasures are helping us build our reputation within the market. I have always been connected to my roots and Amazon, and that personal connection resonates with my customers. People can see that my brand is not just about selling jewelry—it’s about sharing a piece of my heritage, supporting the artisans who create the pieces, and advocating for sustainability and fair trade.

A key factor is also transparency. We focus on ensuring that our customers understand the story behind every piece, from the materials used to the hands that crafted it. This level of authenticity has built trust. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices and using sustainable and responsibly sourced materials has positioned us as a brand that cares deeply about the environment and the people we work with.

Another element that helped establish our reputation is consistency in quality and service. We ensure every piece of jewelry we offer meets high standards, and we take pride in offering personalized attention to our customers. Engaging with our community, sharing the stories of the artisans, and celebrating the culture and beauty of the Amazon have all contributed to making Amazonian Treasures stand out in the market.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amazoniantreasures.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/amazonian.treasures
• Other: Email: [email protected]