This stunning choker style necklace is an unexpected example of ingenuity and style – strung with safety pins and intricate silver beads to create a necklace fit for a queen! It is created for us by a small collective of South African artisans who call themselves the iNkwenkwezi – a name that refers to a special star that appears in the African sky prior to plowing season and gives the villagers hope for a bountiful harvest. These talented South African jewelry artists skillfully incorporate recycled materials and found objects into their imaginative designs.

The Rising Star necklace is strung on a leather cord and measures 21” across. It can be worn either as a necklace by securing the silver clasp or as a choker style, by tying the leather cord securely. Either way it is a stunning piece of jewelry worn by a confident woman. A story card is included.

The Story

Started in 1992 by an Anglican priest as an inspiration to do something to alleviate poverty and high unemployment in the townships in his area, the iNkwenknezi designers have now created a successful home-based business that offers them the opportunity to supplement their income and earn a dignified livelihood. As Nigel remarks: “ today, it gives people so much dignity to be able to work , and to produce good-quality, highly desirable products that are in demand all over the world”.

Xolisa, Mavis, Lindelwa Toto, Cynthia, Nosiseko – are all involved with this enterprise and pleased to be producing distinctly South African jewelry. Lindelwa Toto seems to express the sentiments of her artist friends when she exclaims: “I am a breadwinner, a single parent with 4 children. I desperately need this job – it is my life and my future, also my family’s future.”

GIFT BOX:   This gift is available gift boxed.  It will arrive in our signature white gift box with raffia ribbon and will be presented with a lovely copper Cambodian peace bell - once part of a disused landmine and now recreated into bells for their cows and oxen by Cambodian villagers.  Your gift box option is available at checkout.

PLEASE NOTE: THE RISING STAR NECKLACE IS AVAILABLE IN VERY LIMITED QUANTITIES