Once is a nomadic artisan from Mexico City, travelling and selling his unique, energy-infused jewellery. Specialising in amulet-style pieces, he designs one-of-a-kind creations using natural stones that carry the power of the earth. Each handmade piece combines minerals with specific properties believed to promote healing, protection, and strength. Blending tradition with modern vibes and a little slice of the earth’s energy that’s ready to accompany you wherever you go.

Once Ahau

Once's first love was cooking: "I used to express my creativity through food, working as a chef and experimenting with flavours and textures. But over time, I began to feel a shift inside me—a longing for something more. I was searching for a new way to express myself, to channel my creativity in a fresh direction.
That’s when I decided to travel, following my instinct for change. Along the way, I met a woman who was an artisan, and I fell in love. Not just with her, but with her craft. Her work opened my eyes to the world of handmade art, and I realised this was the new path I was meant to follow.
It was the perfect blend of creativity and soul—something I had been looking for all along."

Biggest challenge

"My biggest challenge has been finding the motivation and inspiration to design something unique.
For a long time, my creative energy was channelled into the culinary world, where I expressed myself through food—experimenting with flavours and textures, particularly by blending traditional recipes with vegetarian elements.
Shifting that creative mindset to design amulets—transforming my creativity from the kitchen to something entirely different—has been a journey of transformation. It's about taking that same spark and redirecting it into a new form".

Inspiration

"The key is to believe in yourself and seek inspiration in the world around you. For me, it's often found in nature—the mountains, the river’s flow, the sound of the sea, or even in moments of joy like dancing with fire or sharing laughter.
Inspiration also comes from connecting with other artists, which helps break through creative blocks. My advice to others is to trust in their art, find the essence of their soul, and let that guide their true creative expression".

"My proudest accomplishment is pushing beyond my own limits and realising my dreams, like travelling the world and spreading my knowledge of minerals and their energy.
One standout moment was when I had the opportunity to speak on local television in Albania, where I was able to share my work with a wider audience and see the genuine interest and curiosity from the people there."

How we met..
I met Once while hanging out on the rooftop of a hostel. We started talking about our travels, and it was wild how many similarities we shared in our journeys. We both made jewellery, and at the time, I was feeling totally stuck creatively—facing a block and struggling to find motivation.

But seeing him so alive and passionate about his work, despite the challenges of being a nomadic artisan, reignited something in me. He was always creating—if we weren’t in the kitchen together, we were sitting and chatting while he worked on a bracelet or necklace. His energy was contagious. Over the next few months, we spent a lot of time together—having dinners, exploring the town, and exchanging ideas. He taught me new techniques and shared valuable tips.

Even now, he continues to inspire and encourage me—sending me fresh sources of inspiration and design ideas to keep my art evolving. It’s amazing how much that connection, that exchange of creativity, shaped that moment in my life.

You can find Once city-hopping through the Balkans and Central Europe, selling his beautiful pieces along the way. Follow his journey as he continues to create, travel, and spread his positive energy.
I’m hoping to reunite with him this summer in Albania, so keep an eye out for both of us, getting creative and embracing the adventure.

@onceahau