How do I know if my necklace is handmade?

Handmade necklaces are incomparable works of wearable art. Each one is unique in shape, color, size and design. Artisans from across the globe offer their own distinctive style of craftsmanship. In India, the vibrant colored gemstones have become a signature fashion statement. Balinese jewelry is characterized by ornate sterling tendrils set with tiny silver spheres. In Brazil, womens necklaces are often sleek and contemporary, with gemstones chosen for their particular energies. Many jewelry designs from Bali and Central America feature hand-knotted macram, such as that used in Guatemalas popular friendship bracelets. Handmade finishes may show variations in metal patterns. No two natural gemstones share the same characteristics. Each necklace holds its own individualistic sense of beauty, making it evident that it was crafted by hand. Some even bear the artisans signature.

What makes a necklace eco-friendly?

Sustainable necklaces are designed with reusable materials, and each culture makes use of the objects and materials most readily at hand. For example, many Andean, Central American and Thai artists use repurposed wood. West African artisans use recycled paper, and beads of recycled glass or plastic. In Thailand, Mexico and Bali, coconut shells are often used. Indian artists sometimes repurpose silk from saris. And Brazilian artists collect discarded zippers and soda pop-tops to crochet into stunning, eco-friendly designs.

What are the classic techniques for making women’s necklaces?

Many artisans the world over work in lost wax. They sculpt the image they want in wax, encase it in a mold, and pour molten silver or gold into it. The wax melts and flows out, leaving only the precious metal. However some artisans in Peru specialize in handmade silver and gold filigree, and some Balinese necklaces feature chains that are handwoven from slender metal strands. Karen hill tribe artisans in Thailand often use manual tools to stamp decorative motifs on fine silver. Other techniques include macram, beaded or gemstone strands, hammered metals, and carved wood or bone.

What are the most common materials for making women’s necklaces?

Precious metals and natural gemstones are the most popular materials for women's necklaces. Silver, gold and brass all provide durability as well as beauty. Artisans also utilize local materials that can include coconut shells, bamboo, bright African print fabrics, ceramic beads, natural amber, carved bone and bull horn. Both Peru and Mexico have rich silver mines and silver is used for traditional jewelry as well as contemporary designs.

What is the best way to wear women’s necklaces?

Women's necklaces are versatile and come in many styles and lengths. They can be layered or worn alone as a statement piece. Many designs go with everything from jeans to office wear or an evening out on the town. The best thing about jewelry is that its a customizable form of expression that provides a sense of luxury and individuality.

What are the signs of a well-made necklace?

When assessing the workmanship of a necklace, its helpful to pay attention to certain characteristics. For example, quality necklaces are balanced designs that rest comfortably around the neck. Clasps are secure and work well, and gemstones and beads are properly set. The precious metals should be nicely finished, and beads should not be too tightly strung. Well-made necklaces reflect excellent craftsmanship and attractive materials.

Are there specific cultural symbols used in womens necklaces?

Each culture celebrates its rich jewelry-making history through specific symbols and styles. For example, traditional West African beads, which adorn many necklaces from the region, each have a story and a specific occasion when they are worn. Others may feature the Ghanian adinkra symbols, which convey popular wisdom. In ancient Andean civilizations, the leaders apparel and jewelry showed their rank and also incorporated religious symbols. Similarly, necklaces from Bali often depict deities from the Hindu pantheon. In India, a womans jewelry is linked to her status in society and may depict Hindu gods as well as mantra symbols such as the omkara, the root of all sounds and the emblem of the Most High. Angel necklaces and harmony ball necklaces are often worn by pregnant women in Bali and in Mexico. The pendant makes a delicate bell sound, thought to soothe the mother and the baby she is carrying. Some believe it summons a guardian angel, thus making it a symbol of loving protection.

Necklaces : Novica Team Favorites at NOVICA

Petite Fleur, Hand Made Sterling Silver Floral Charm Necklace

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Free Spirit, Multi-Gem Station Necklace Garnet Amethyst Citrine

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Genesis, 18k Gold-Plated Multi-Gemstone Charm Strand Necklace

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Owl's Night, Handmade 925 Sterling Silver Garnet Owl Pendant Necklace

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Radiant Allure, Carnelian and Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace from India

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Golden Hour, Hand Made Citrine and Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace

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Boho Spirit, Cultured Pearl Reconstituted Turquoise Gold Accent Necklace

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Island Dreams, Sterling Silver and Reconstituted Turquoise Locket Necklace

Size: 19.75" W x 0.1" H

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Generations, Hand Motif Inspirational Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace

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Length: 18.5"

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Sparkle & Gleam, Double-Strand Necklace with Rainbow Moonstone

Length: 16"

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Glistening Elephants, Garnet and Marcasite Elephant Pendant Necklace from Thailand

Length: 18"

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Hamsa Protection, Gold Plated Labradorite Hamsa Pendant Necklace from India

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Golden Waves, Gold Plated Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace from India

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Oracle Wishbone, Rose Gold Accented Sterling Silver Wishbone Necklace

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Dance Party, Amethyst Chip and Brass Bead Necklace from Thai Artisan

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Azure Forever, Blue Dried Flower and Resin Silver Necklace from Mexico

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Featured Reviews

Multi-gemstone long station necklace, 'Free Spirit'

Denise Morton

Jul 30, 2018

Beautiful and Delicate!

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this necklace I had a small part of the necklace made into a bracelet to make a matching set It is so feminine and delicate This artist has beautiful and stunning jewelry

Trendy

Sterling silver locket necklace, 'Island Dreams'

Bernadette

Sep 2, 2020

Love!

I was a little concerned that the pendant was going to be too heavy but it wasn't at all! It's light, easy to wear, and beautifully made. Thank you!

A Mysterious Jewelry!!

Indonesian Silver Jewelry

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Sterling silver pendant necklace, 'Generations'

Wendy

Jun 16, 2020

simple and sweet

I was pleasantly surprised that the chain was included. The necklace will catch on loose weave sweater tops, but is perfect for summer items. Perfect Mother's Day gift!

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