Please read on the learn a bit more about me, and how I got here...
by Ravi 'Noog' Scott
How I got Started in Jewelry
In the early 2000s, I relocated with my daughter and infant son to the enchanting island of Koh Tao, Thailand, captivated by its crystal-clear waters and lush green mountains. We settled in Mae Haad, the island's main town near the pier, and became part of a close-knit community.
Despite limited financial resources, we collaborated to build makeshift shops from tarps, which also served as our homes. My shop, with its tarp walls and dirt floor, became a place where I sold handmade jewelry to tourists.
Interacting with customers from around the world brought me immense joy and fulfillment, igniting a passion for sharing art and crafts. Over time, this passion deepened as I formed lasting relationships with returning visitors who cherished our island and its unique offerings.
A Life Transformed
In 2006, I met my now-husband, Chad Scott, a dedicated marine conservationist working to protect Koh Tao's reefs.Our paths crossed one evening while dancing, and we've been inseparable ever since.
Chad inspired me to believe in myself and to overcome self-imposed limitations. With his encouragement, we saved diligently, and in 2007, I established my dream shop in Mae Haad, aptly named Himmapan, after the mystical forest of Sanskrit mythology.
This store became the heart of our lives—a vibrant hub where friends, family, tourists, and strangers converged. The tables in front of the shop were always occupied, fostering connections over quick chats, shared meals, or simple greetings.
Himmapan gained a reputation on the island as the go-to place for unique souvenirs, each piece reflecting my evolving craftsmanship and deepening appreciation for natural stones and earthly materials.
Living the Good Life
In 2010, buoyed by the success of our Mae Haad store, we expanded by opening a second location in Chalok Ban Kao. Chad and I poured our hearts into designing and constructing a beautiful shop that embodied our vision of natural beauty.
Every log and nail was intentionally placed to bring our dream to life. This new shop thrived, becoming a cherished space where friends, family, tourists, and strangers gathered. We took pride in the life we had built and the deep relationships we fostered with returning visitors.
Our commitment to the island extended beyond our business; we actively participated in the Save Koh Tao Community Group, working alongside fellow residents to conserve natural resources and promote sustainable tourism. Life was good.
Unforeseen Change
In February 2016, our lives took an unexpected turn when Chad was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, an aggressive blood cancer. We immediately relocated to Bangkok, where he underwent intensive chemotherapy at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital.
During this challenging period, I remained by his side, and our thriving jewelry shops in Koh Tao faced difficulties in our absence. Although our dedicated staff managed operations, the vibrant community hub we had cultivated began to dissipate.
In November 2016, we returned to Koh Tao, but Chad's cancer soon recurred. This led us to Evergreen, Colorado, his hometown, for a stem cell transplant. The subsequent years were arduous, focused primarily on his survival and recovery.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a final blow to our businesses, forcing us to close both jewelry stores. Despite these hardships, we remain profoundly grateful for the incredible era we experienced on Koh Tao, cherishing the memories and connections forged during that time.
New Beginnings
With Chad's recovery progressing and the COVID-19 pandemic receding, we felt the ocean's call once more and decided to relocate to Florida. Without a specific destination in mind, our initial days were challenging, but we eventually found our footing in West Palm Beach.
After seven tumultuous years, we finally achieved stability, allowing me to refocus on my craft. I created this website to share my creations with the world and reconnect with customers who appreciate unique, handcrafted jewelry. Although it's not yet my full-time occupation, I aspire for it to become so again.
In the coming years, we hope to return to our beloved island home and establish a new venture—a welcoming space where everyone can relax, enjoy good food, share stories, listen to music, and savor moments with amazing people from around the globe. Until then, I hope you enjoy the pieces I've crafted here.
