I'm Diveena Marcus, and my journey has taken me from my upbringing in Sonoma County, CA, to my current home in Del Norte County, CA. As an enrolled member of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria (FIGR) tribe, my creativity draws from a deep connection to my indigenous roots influenced by the Pacific Ocean and California Redwoods reflecting the diverse cultures of my ancestors and those dear to me.

The wellspring of my inspiration lies in nature's inhabitants (vegetation, mineral and animal relatives) and my indigenous connection to the unseen world. Much of my work is shaped by traditional influences. In particular, the intricate bead weaving work I took up in practise while residing in Montana and Canada working and living amongst the local indigenous populations and learning to use traditional materials that I now incorporate into contemporary styles.

As a child my fascination was exploring the natural world and my discovery of lovely gemstones within the earth developed my relationship with gemology. I've studied gemology through GIA and have worked in the jewelry industry for over 20 years. I am presently working on metalsmithing, so stay tuned for future creations.

I don't rush through my creations; instead, I relish the visioning process, allowing each piece to take shape gradually. I cherish my solitude when I create where I listen to music or my pond waterfall and gaze out of my office/studio window onto the forest and gardens. While I do love my alone time, I enjoy meeting and sharing with folks at powwows and artisan events.

Currently, you can find many of my jewelry pieces on display in the local Gallery of Arts and Culture in Crescent City, California. Over the years, my art has been featured in Hawaii, the US mainland, and Canada. Many of my creations have also found homes in the British Isles and Europe, too.

I have so much appreciation for the old art guilds and artisans. Hence, I craft with the utmost care and attention to detail by hand with little use of modern technology. Whether I am working in two dimension, jewelry or working with herbs, I allow the original natural essence to come forth as a custom-design, infused with love.

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About the Indigenous Artisans Collective

Etsy and Nest are proud to support the Indigenous Artisans Collective within the Etsy Uplift Makers Program, featuring shops from Indigenous makers affiliated with 10 Indigenous groups across the United States and the First Nations of Canada.

Many of the makers practice craft skills that have been inspired by or passed down from family and community mentors. Product collections include meticulously handcrafted home goods, jewelry and other accessories, in honor of the maker’s culture and heritage. Amongst many indigenous communities, traditional handcraft continues to hold significant cultural value, as well as economic opportunity.

Through the Uplift Makers: Indigenous Artisans Collective, Etsy and Nest are helping to create digital market access and economic opportunities for Indigenous makers while also providing artisans with resources and tools to help run a successful online business. From expert-led digital marketing training, onboarding support, and a custom resource library, the program delivers a comprehensive suite of programming to participants. Additionally, the program addresses key barriers new business owners face, such as providing professional photography to capture the creative content needed to showcase their talent and reach new customers in today’s digital era.