Jizo and Chibi Jewelry Collection $195 Value, Review & Giveaway

Namaste.

Designer Valerie Johns, a psychotherapist, writer, and artist has created a new holistic jewelry collection that reflects the spirituality of ancient Buddhist wisdom; it’s jewelry with a path.  The two collections, Jizo and Chibi, were launched Thanksgiving 2009.  Pieces in each jewelry line are handmade from either gold vermeil or sterling silver and range from $50 to $200.

Jizo, one of the most beloved and revered Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism, is the protector and guide of many; some of those Jizo protects are: women, children, and travelers. A long time ago promises were made to Buddha that Jizo would stay here on earth aspiring to save all beings from suffering and help ameliorate our pain and anxiety.  Often cute and cartoon-like, Jizo is a friend to all, never frightening, even to children; and is particularly special to women, often giving great strength to those that are pregnant and new mothers.  Jizo’s qualities include unflagging optimism, fearlessness, and gentleness.

Chibi, the Japanese word for “small child” or “little one”, when worn as jewelry creates a sense of calm.  Chibi is soothing, playful, and can be mischievous; as one’s own child and/or inner child would be.

Living in Tokyo, at 14 Valerie first became aware of Chibi by having two very tiny friends that she lovingly called “The Chibi-ko Gang” (the gang of little ones).  Several years ago while hiking to a hillside temple in Kyoto, Valerie learned about Jizo and thus began her creativity for crafting and designing the Jizo and Chibi brand and line of products.

I hope you will feel as special as I did when I found out that Valerie herself handpicked and generously provided the Standing Silver Jizo and Tiny Silver Chibi necklaces for our review and giveaway.  I found it quite personable and touching.  (Thank you Valerie!)

I was so excited to open my package when it first arrived.  Everything about Jizo and Chibi makes one feel pampered and lavished upon.  The deep buttery boxes have a Jizo and Chibi sticker tastefully placed on the lid; inside you find your necklace has arrived sagely by being placed into a transparent shimmering jewelry bag.  The Tiny Chibi is so dainty and delicate, you find yourself, quite fittingly, caring for it as if it was a child.  The protector, Standing Jizo, is appropriately substantial and weighty.  While Standing Jizo’s chain is thicker than Tiny Chibi’s, each pendant came with an elegant 16 inch silver chain.

These unique keepsakes would be a perfect gift to child and mother this Mother’s Day!

If a little retail therapy is in order, be sure to check out her special going on: Pair a Big Silver Chibi with a Tiny Chibi and save $20 by using coupon code “MOTHERCHILD”  at checkout.

Valerie’s jack-of-all-trade talent extends to: handpuppets, hats, onesies, sculptures, statues, art, photography, watercolors, jewelry, and books.  Although there is only one book available, what i heard & what you said; Why a Fly?is in production now and there is a third book in the works.  Coming soon to Jizo and Chibi will be: pajamas, yoga pants, tote bags, pencils, hoodies, aprons, and Jizo stuffies.

Want to win the Standing Silver Jizo and Tiny Silver Chibi necklaces?  Find out how and enter directly below.  Also, be sure to check out all of our other giveaways here.

A complimentary product/service was provided for this review however all opinions expressed are our own. We were not compensated in any other way for this review. See Mommies with Cents disclosure policy for more details.