Where did the name “Maharma” come from?

She smiled before explaining the story behind it.

“The inspiration came from my name, Mariel,  and I used that to combine with it with ‘Dharma.’ I wanted something that sounded harmonious and meaningful, so eventually Maharma felt right. For me, it represents creativity, balance, and living in a more intentional way.”

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At what point did you realize beadwork was what you truly wanted to focus on?

“When I’m beading, I feel relaxed. I don’t feel rushed and time just disappears. It never felt like work to me—it always felt creative and calming at the same time. I realized this was something I genuinely loved doing because it made me happy while also allowing me to create something meaningful.”

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What is it about jewelry making that inspires you most?

“I think creativity naturally brings people together. Whenever friends or their children try beadwork, they end up loving it. There’s something about creating with your hands that connects people, no matter their age.”

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Do you have favorite materials or certain pieces you enjoy creating most?

“I love working with seed beads—the really tiny beads—and creating detailed patterns with them. I enjoy the concentration it takes and imagining what the final piece is going to become while I’m creating it.

I don’t really have a preference between necklaces, bracelets, or earrings because what I love most is the process itself. I can work on something for a while, step away, and then come back to it later with fresh energy.

It feels very organic and meditative for me rather than rushed or forced. And when I finally complete a piece, it gives me a real sense of accomplishment.”

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Were there moments where you questioned whether this could become something more?

“Yes, of course. There were times when I wondered if I could really make a living from it. But I realized I wasn’t creating only for business—I was creating because it enriches me personally.

That’s what kept me going.”

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You don’t work from a traditional storefront. How do people discover your work?

“Most people currently find me through Instagram and through the places where my jewelry is displayed locally. I like that it grows naturally and through connection.”

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And if you had to start over creatively—would you still choose jewelry making?

“Absolutely. I would do it again.

For me, it’s therapeutic. It helps me clear my mind, challenge myself creatively, and continue learning. There’s always something new to discover.”

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Why Here? In Bucerías? What drew you to this coastal community?

“Bucerías is beautiful, and it’s growing so quickly. I also felt there wasn’t enough exposure for beadwork as an art form here. A lot of people immediately think of silver jewelry, but beading is art too.

I really admire traditional bead artists and Indigenous craftsmanship because the detail and creativity are incredible. I still consider myself always learning.

Bucerías felt like a beautiful place to continue growing creatively.”

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If you had to start over again, would you still choose Bucerías?

“I think I would. It feels like a place full of opportunity, creativity, and people trying new things. It’s close to where I live, but beyond that, it simply feels inspiring here.”

 

 

As our conversation came to an end, it became clear that Maharma Beaded Jewelry is about far more than handcrafted accessories. Behind every piece is patience, creativity, and a quiet appreciation for the process itself.

Some businesses are built loudly. Others are built bead by bead, pattern by pattern, shaped slowly over time by the hands creating them.

Mariel’s work is one of those stories.

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