This stunning necklace is handmade out of recycled artillery shells by HIV positive women in Ethiopia.  It features long strands of brass and silver-plated beads, creating a gorgeous mixed metal piece. 

Measures 34" around (longest strand).

Please note: gold-colored beads are pure brass, whereas the silver-colored beads are silver-plated.  Depending on the pH of your skin, the silver-colored beads may turn copper colored with time.

ABOUT THE ARTISANS

This artisan group in Ethiopia is one of our favorite new groups we are featuring.  In the mountains of Ethiopia farmers find old bullet casings from previous wars and melt them down to be re-purposed into beautiful beads.  The jewelry is then designed and handcrafted in a fair trade cooperative consisting of 150 women who are either HIV positive or suffering from fistula due to genital mutilation.  The cooperative has not only given the women employment and access to quality healthcare, but has provided hope and a sense of dignity.