This stunning necklace is handmade out of recycled artillery shells by HIV positive women in Ethiopia.  It features a beautiful combination of brass and silver beads, creating a unique, contemporary design.

Measures approximately 25" around.

Please note: the gold beads are pure brass so can be polished if desired.  The silver beads are plated copper so over time the copper may begin to show through, creating an antique-like look that many people enjoy.  

Silver beads may contain nickel.  

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.