Our Story

Breathing new life into a centuries-old craft is what gave birth to Erma: La Platera.

 

Unbeknownst to many, the charming town of Dauis in Bohol is home to the dying art of traditional handmade jewelry making. Our company pays tribute to Mrs. Geronima “Erma” Bunachita — one of the few remaining artisans that continue to actively practice the craft to this day. She learned the skill from her mother and grandmother who also inherited it from their own mothers.

 

Over the decades, the number of plateros and plateras in Dauis has dwindled. Those who have learned the skill of handmade jewelry making have chosen to work for bigger commercial companies. But Erma has made it her life’s mission to preserve this heritage craft. Serving a niche clientele, Erma painstakingly designs and puts together each of her jewelry, down to the smallest detail.

 

To keep this delicate art alive, Erma has also pledged to teach others, especially the younger ones, who are interested in learning traditional handmade jewelry.

 

From earrings to necklaces, rings, and bracelets, each product of Erma: La Platera is a labor of love by Erma and her apprentices in her small workshop in Dauis, Bohol. With each jewelry you purchase, you do not only showcase heritage craft, but you also support a noble social enterprise.