This fascinating primitive-style necklace is filled with elements of earthy colors each bringing their own unique story to the piece creating one harmonious jungle-inspired composition. With many of the components in this necklace being rare finds from history or just hard to duplicate items, this piece of jewelry is a completely original one-of-a-kind creation.

Many of the beads in this necklace are trade beads that were used during different periods in history for the purpose of trading for goods. The stunning millefiore beads (the two beads on either side of the center wood teardrop) are historically called African trade beads, as they were created in Venice during the European expansion period beginning in the early 1800’s with the sole purpose of trading them to Africa for gold, ivory, palm oil and slaves. Next in line to the Venetian millefiore beads are famous chevron beads that were used in trade with Africa as well and are considered the aristocrat of trade beads, sought by bead collectors all over the world. Chevron beads are cane glass beads that were invented in Venice in the 1500’s. These particular chevron beads are red, blue and gray and are specifically called awala beads.

Adding some authentic "jungleness" to this rustic bracelet is the chunks of wood that are actually recycled from pieces of wood found on the forest floor. The exotic woods used to create these beads include mulga, pixie bush, gimlet, boree, jarrah, gidgee, and sandalwood. Each of these wood chunks are individually cut, shaped and sanded by hand and they are each completely different, varying in size, shape and color.

Rustic and ethnic, the ancient-looking woven brass beads at the necklace ends are made in a village near Kumasi, Ghana in Africa.  Although these appear to be ancient beads, they are actually newly made in Ghana.

The remainder of the beads, including those used for the original hook and eye clasp, are actually terra cotta beads from Greece. They are handmade using a mixture of volcanic terra cotta clays, kiln-fired and dyed or enamel-coated in order to create these awesome beads.  This designer artisan necklace is 21" in length and can adjust to 25" using the attached chain.

Made from: Recycled wood teardrop beads, Sky blue "padre" trade beads, Old Venetian millefiore trade beads, Awala Venetian chevron trade beads, Leafy green ceramic stones pebbles, Sun yellow terra cotta beads, Lime green dyed terra cotta beads, African "woven" brass beads, Enamel glazed terra cotta rings, Enamel glazed terra cotta tubes, Dyed Greek leather cord, Solid brass wirework, Copper wire, Antiqued copper chain with rings and links.