Multi-Strand Bohemian Stone & Metal Ethiopian Cross Statement Necklace

This vibrant bohemian tribal statement necklace is a unique fusion of ancient and modern components with an overall earthy tone. Saturated hues of blues, greens, and oranges are balanced by the neutral browns of the jasper and silver and brass metals. The three distinct strands come together to form one harmonious piece of artisan jewelry in which the colors, shapes, and styles of the components complement one another, but still maintain their individuality. Bohemia seemed like a fitting name for this necklace given the unconventional use of contrast, color and form.

Providing some history to this piece, the metal cross is a coptic cross from Ethiopia worn as a symbol of faith by Ethiopian Christians. These crosses are imported directly from Ethiopia and each one is different. The crosses have design elements reflecting a number of historical influences and they are specific to the towns or provinces from which they come. Some of the crosses are made by the lost wax method and others are cut directly from a Maria Theresa dollar.

The other pendant in this designer necklace is a stylized fossil made in Greece from terra cotta clay. It is hand-formed from the clays, kiln-fired, coated with a pure copper base and kiln-fired again and then a chemical patina is applied to create the beautiful and authentic green patina effect. These pendants will each be slightly different from one another.

The gorgeous green-blue strand of beads is chrysocolla. The brown barrel beads are picture jasper with that strand also containing a large nugget of carnelian and yellow turquoise from China’s Hubei province. The unique metal beads are African trade beads that are rough handmade bicones with obvious seams and pinching. They are sold as being white metal, which is basically an alloy of any number of non-precious metals such as lead and tin. I am not exactly sure what metal is contained in these beads.

I am using metal rings at the ends rather than the carnelian as I had one of the carnelian break and the metal is much stronger. The shortest strand of this necklace is 14 inches and the longest about 20 inches, with the Coptic cross adding another inch and a half in length. It closes with a large brass lobster clasp and can adjust in size with the brass chain adding up to 4 inches in length.

Length: 14-20" ; 4" extension

* I make every piece of jewelry myself with gemstones and natural materials I get from all over the world. Due to the nature and availability of the materials, each piece of jewelry will vary slightly from the original. Every piece will be equally beautiful and every piece is an original work of art.