Jewellery Atelier

Our Desire for Silver

What is it about silver that draws us?

Across many cultures, legends speak of the magical qualities of silver—its supernatural ability to ward off evil (including vampires and werewolves), its healing properties in ancient alchemy, its reputed ability to detect poison, its folkloric incorruptibility, and its mystical connection to the moon.

Beyond myth lies its sheer beauty. Silver’s pure, luminous sheen is unmatched by any other metal. Sensual and tactile, it feels cool when first worn against the skin, then gradually warms to the touch, alive and responsive, becoming almost one with the wearer.

These qualities, both material and mythical, render silver timeless and endlessly desired. The truth is simple: silver has fascinated humankind for centuries, and it always will.

Our Workshop: The Art of Making

Silversmithing is an ancient art that spans centuries and cultures. In Cambodia where silver has long been one of the country’s most precious materials—the craft dates back more than 1,000 years. It reached its height in the 11th century during the Angkor Empire, before falling into decline eight centuries later under the brutal Pol Pot regime of the 1970s and the economic hardships that followed.

In recent decades, as the country has continued to rebuild, Khmer silversmithing has experienced a quiet revival. Local artisans and jewellers are once again revitalising age-old traditions through the making of silverware and silver jewellery. Garden of Desire is part of this renewal.

During the challenges of the Covid pandemic, our artisan workshop reached a turning point. From our roots in Cambodia, we expanded into neighbouring Southeast Asian countries, building meaningful collaborations with small-scale artisanal workshops while supporting the growth of apprenticeships.

In choosing silver as his primary medium of expression, founder-designer Ly Pisith works not only with a historic material, but with one that possesses unique transformative qualities. Some pieces are polished to a bright, reflective sheen, emitting a bold metallic presence. Others carry a soft, subtle patina reminiscent of antique Khmer silverware. All are created by hand at Garden of Desire’s Siem Reap based atelier by Pisith and his team of highly skilled artisans.

The team works with regionally sourced materials—955 fine silver, 925 sterling silver, 18K gold for plating, local sandstone, and semi-precious stones—treating each with care and respect. Traditional Cambodian techniques form the foundation of the work, complemented where appropriate by regional or contemporary silversmithing processes to achieve the best possible results.

Throughout the making process, careful attention is paid to how each piece relates to the human body. Comfort is essential. Jewellery is shaped to feel snug yet light, natural and effortless to wear. Pieces are produced in limited quantities, progressing thoughtfully from sketch to prototype to finished object. What emerges are compelling and meaningful works—wearable pieces shaped by hand, history, and intent.