Maria’s childhood has been an interesting journey. She grew up in a small town in Zambales, Philippines, where she spent much of her early years outdoors playing in nature with her two elder sisters and brother. She enjoyed walking through the woods, playing at the vast arid land of dried swamps, walking at the beach, or making crafts from seeds, leaves, stones and paper. Nature and her early experiences became her inspiration for art.

Maria has graduated with a degree in Education, major in English and Journalism, from the most prestigous premiere teaching institution in the Philippines. Although she has an Education degree, Maria has a very strong passion for the Arts. This had led her to join the Artist Guild, where she honed her talent in sketching and painting. She also started making her own jewellery designs at age 16, using rolled glossy paper from magazines. While making these pieces, she had discovered a passion that would change her life forever.

Maria was blessed with great opportunities to travel almost all parts of the Philippines and other countries during the early part of her career. Her travels had introduced her to the various cultures and wealth of jewellery designs in Asia and North America.  When she moved to Vancouver over a decade ago, she met local artists and artisans who shared her passion and love for artistic and unique jewellery designs. These meetings had opened doors to endless opportunities. Having access to materials and resources when she travels out of town or out of the country- from gemstones, precious metals, glass beads, lampwork glass beads- this has rekindled her passion to create jewellery.

NeonAmber Jewels is Maria’s passion and inspiration… her endless desire to create something special for others to enjoy and share their innate beauty with. Her collections are inspirations derived from nature, people and special events in life. Her works are representation of modern and fun designs and with touch of Asian cultures, what she refers as ”her precious roots”. She uses quality materials and  makes each piece a “treasure to enjoy”. Each creation is beaded with love and passion… each piece has a story to tell… Wouldn’t it be special to be yours she’s beading next?

Welcome to NEONAMBER JEWELS… the passion and inspiration of Maria Castro.

Thess, as she is fondly called by her families and friends, is the youngest of four siblings (the eldest is Feliciana, Godofredo, Jr. and Mary Ann) and a native of Cavite, Philippines. Two of her favorite people on earth are her parents, Godofredo and another artist in the family, her late mother, Luningning (means “brilliance”), whom she inherited her virtues of patience , craftmanship and artistry. She loves to write, to travel, to meet people and to talk about her passion-jewellery. Her goal is to enjoy and share her passion with others- and hopes people will enjoy wearing her creations as much as she enjoys designing and making them.