About Us

Rooted in Zen. Guided by Ritual. Crafted for Presence.

Solmala is a quiet homage to the timeless grace of Eastern traditions — brought into harmony with modern simplicity. Each piece draws from centuries of symbolism and the steady rhythm of meditation to become more than an object. These are companions for mindfulness. Grounding, centering, connecting — Solmala designs are created to carry meaning, not just adornment.

Our Story

Solmala began with a single question: How can we carry presence with us, no matter where we are?

In the hush between conversations, in the slowness of breath, and in the rituals that shape our daily lives — this question took form. Inspired by ancient crafts and the quiet discipline of spiritual practice, Solmala was born to offer intentional adornments that echo with meaning. This path brought us to the skilled hands of a master artisan, whose dedication brings stillness to life through wood and time.

The Meaning of Solmala

The name "Solmala" comes from a fusion of purpose and spirit — a joining of two worlds:

  • Sol, for soul, light, and clarity.
  • Mala, for the sacred string of prayer beads used in meditative practice — a symbol of repetition, presence, and peace.

Together, Solmala means to bring spirit into form. Our pieces are designed to be worn with intention — a daily act of centering and grace.

Meet the Maker: Ryan Zhuang

At the heart of Solmala is a master craftsman whose life bridges cultures, traditions, and time. Born in China and raised in Thailand, Ryan Zhuang moved to the U.S. at age 29 and now resides in Columbus, Ohio. With over 30 years of experience, he continues to craft each piece by hand with steady devotion and deep purpose.

His work begins with natural materials and humble tools — shaped slowly, patiently, with the rhythm of breath. What emerges is not just a bracelet or carving, but a quiet embodiment of stillness, ritual, and ancestral memory. Even now, Ryan’s passion for sacred craftsmanship remains as strong as ever, living through every curve and grain he shapes.

A Mission of Cultural Connection

Solmala exists to bridge the deep wisdom of Eastern practice with the quiet needs of modern life. Through handmade objects and meditative craft, we aim to offer more than beauty — we offer presence.

Our mission:

  • To inspire mindfulness in everyday ritual.
  • To bring traditional artistry into modern hands.
  • To gently remind others to slow down, breathe, and reconnect.

Solmala’s Philosophy

  • Simplicity as Sacred

    We believe beauty lives in restraint. Our designs are calm, uncluttered, and intentional — honoring the space between things.

  • Ritual as Anchor

    The smallest acts — wearing a bracelet, taking a breath — can become rituals when done with presence. We create for those moments.

  • Presence as Practice

    Our pieces are not meant to be collected. They are meant to be lived with — worn, touched, used, and cherished as quiet tools for being here, now.