New Arrivals : Necklaces(192 items)
Welcome to our New Arrivals : Necklace Collection, each piece crafted by NOVICA artisans who carry on ancestral traditions in contemporary designs.
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The Village Council
Your answers straight from the village experts


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.


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.


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.


Womens 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.


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.


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.


Many traditional artisans employ the handcrafted techniques of their ancestors, which favored a slow, methodical approach in a small workshop, as opposed to mass production. Today, they preserve these methodologies while intentionally distinguishing their approaches from those of large factories. Respect for the environment, and for animal and human life drive the artwork itself. Natural materials are often a sign that a product is eco-friendly. Additionally, many artisans look for ways to reuse or recycle in their artwork. Some choose to repurpose old wood or fabric. Some recycle glass beads or up-cycle plastic and discarded paper. Others follow practices that conserve resources, like water and energy, and are mindful of the pollutants they release into the environment. Shopping from organizations that promote eco-friendly products is the best way to ensure that you are receiving a unique item that does not damage the world through its making.
Featured Artist
Shawn Martin Gemstone and sterling silver jewelry
Popular New Arrivals : Necklaces
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Hand Made Sterling Silver Crescent Moon Pendant Necklace, "Tipsy Moon"
$69.99Three shining pendants hang from this sterling silver multi-strand necklace designed by Indian artisan Neetu Barathi. The upper chain features a silver loop pendant with a flat, textured coin at the center, while the lower chain features a large, textured coin. A gleaming crescent moon with a heart relief dangles elegantly from the middle chain. The artisan finishes the necklace with a lobster claw clasp and adjustable fit.
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Chrysocolla and Hawk's Eye Macrame Pendant Necklace, "Ocean Boho"
$84.99A mysterious chrysocolla gemstone hangs at the center of this statement-making bohemian necklace designed by Thai artisan Kanjana. The artisan hand knots black polyester cords in a lacy antique pattern using traditional macrame techniques, then accents the design with brass beads.
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Hand Crafted Orchid Petal Pendant Necklace and Brooch, "Orchid Magic in Purple"
$49.99Crafted from genuine orchid petals, this necklace from by Thai artisan Danai catches the eye with its unique flower shape and rich color. The radiant purple petals are coated with a glossy resin, then accented with 22k gold-plated edges. The pendant may be removed from the 22k gold-plated brass chain and worn as a brooch. Please note the size and the shape of the orchid petal may vary from season to season.
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Multi-Gemstone and Sterling Silver Chakra Pendant Necklace, "Chakra Medallion"
$67.99Attain peace of mind and channel positive energy wearing this fascinating pendant necklace from Alok Jain. A round blue topaz gemstone centers the openwork sterling silver pendant, which swings from a sleek cable chain. The pendant is studded with amethyst, carnelian, citrine, garnet, iolite, and peridot, each stone representing a different chakra point.
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