IN THE SOUTH OF SRPSKA, UNIQUE JEWELRY THAT TURNS HEADS

In the southern town of Trebinje, Republika Srpska, Milijana Zirojević has been crafting unique jewelry and fashion accessories for the past 15 years, showcasing her talent, creativity, and refined eye for detail. Her handmade pieces have become a cherished part of everyday life for many women and girls who wear her creations with pride.

PHOTO: SRNA

Zirojević told SRNA news agency that she began making jewelry in 2009, reviving her skills in knitting and sewing. The very first piece she made—originally just for herself—quickly caught the attention of a friend. Encouraged by the positive response, she decided to turn her hobby into a passion project.

Since then, she has created and sold countless pieces, using an eclectic mix of materials: wool, fabric, wire, polymer clay, beads, and rhinestones. Her collection includes necklaces, earrings, brooches, bracelets, headbands, and hair clips for both adults and children, as well as custom bridal jewelry.

“Each piece is a small work of art,” says Zirojević, “and every one carries a part of my creativity and talent.”

She markets her products mainly through Instagram and Facebook, where clients can request personalized designs based on photos, colors, or specific outfits. In addition to social media, she supplies her jewelry to two local souvenir shops. “One of the most rewarding feelings is seeing a woman on the street wearing something I made,” she said, proudly reflecting on the longevity and quality of her work.

The creative process varies from item to item—some pieces take just minutes to complete, while others require several days, depending on the inspiration. Zirojević’s journey began with a knitted headband, which she still keeps as a treasured memento. Today, she makes almost every type of jewelry, though she admits that earrings remain her personal favorite to wear.

After completing university, Zirojević was unemployed for a while and began selling her jewelry at the local market in Trebinje. It was during that time, while Emir Kusturica was filming On the Milky Road in the area, that she had an unexpected celebrity encounter.

“One day, Monica Bellucci came by and ordered two pairs of earrings,” she recalled with a smile. “She roughly described what she wanted, and the next day her daughter came to pick them up. Her daughters also bought some headbands and other earrings.” Though she has no photo proof, Zirojević playfully notes that a fellow vendor, Jelena, who sold honey next to her stand, witnessed the moment.

Despite the excitement of having a world-famous actress wear her designs, Zirojević remains humble: “Of course it’s nice that Monica Bellucci wore my earrings, but I don’t place her above the many women who have been wearing my jewelry for years. I’m proud of their loyalty.”

Among all her creations, Zirojević has a soft spot for brooches. “Each one is different and never repeated,” she said, adding that she often surprises even herself with new designs.

Through her handmade jewelry, Zirojević seeks to offer more than just accessories. “I want my pieces to become a part of a woman’s life, to complement her personality and enhance her beauty,” she said. “It brings me real joy to see women and girls wearing something I’ve made with love and patience—and of course, I always strive to make each new piece even more creative and beautiful.”