This seminar shares insights from the research project “Chanthaburi: Contemporary Cultural Creative Products from Gemstone Scraps,” which aims to redefine the province’s identity by merging heritage with modern design. The project draws inspiration from the Thala Borivat style lintel at Wat Supattanaram, a historic masterpiece of Chanthaburi. The core concept involves reimagining the “Makara”—a sacred symbol of abundance—into a contemporary Art Toy. By integrating local gemstone scraps into the design, the initiative adds value to indigenous materials and elevates traditional motifs into innovative products for a modern audience.
The primary objective of this seminar is to disseminate the creative findings from the research project “Chanthaburi: Contemporary Cultural Creative Products from Gemstone Scraps.” It aims to showcase how historical assets, specifically the Thala Borivat style lintel from Wat Supattanaram, can be revitalized through modern design to create a unique cultural identity for Chanthaburi. Furthermore, the seminar seeks to demonstrate the innovative integration of local resources and traditional beliefs by transforming the “Makara” into a contemporary Art Toy. By showcasing the use of gemstone scraps, the session highlights strategies for adding economic value to local materials, fostering a sustainable connection between Chanthaburi’s rich heritage and the global creative economy.
The implementation of this seminar is scheduled for 8 December 2025 at the Chanthaburi Gems & Jewelry Center, held as a key highlight of the International Chanthaburi Gems and Jewelry Festival 2025. The event features a collaborative session led by two distinguished experts: Lecturer Alongkorn Pamounsab, a specialist from the Jewelry Design Department at the Faculty of Gems, Burapha University (Chanthaburi Campus), and Mr. Pondusit Phunkhetwit, the visionary founder of the Maewauan Facebook Page. Together, they will bridge the gap between academic research and market-driven creativity, providing participants with deep insights into the fusion of cultural heritage and commercial design.
The seminar will utilize a combination of expert lectures and design showcases to demonstrate the practical application of the research. Attendees will explore the technical process of incorporating gemstone scraps into high-value products and the creative journey of reimagining the Makara from the Thala Borivat lintel into a modern Art Toy. By hosting this event during an international festival, the organizers aim to provide a platform for designers, students, and jewelry entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, ultimately promoting Chanthaburi as a leading hub for contemporary cultural products.
This seminar drives sustainable impact by aligning with multiple SDGs. It supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships) by bridging academic research from Burapha University with private-sector expertise to empower local talent. By transforming cultural heritage into marketable Art Toys, the event stimulates SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the expansion of Chanthaburi’s creative economy. Moreover, the focus on upcycling gemstone scraps directly advances SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). This innovative approach promotes a circular economy, turning industrial waste into high-value products and establishing a sustainable model for the jewelry industry.
Event Date: 8 December 2025
Project Leader: Lecturer Alongkorn Pamounsab
