Rhythm of the Orient

Hand-carved Bone Elephant, Crazy Lace Agate, Green Turquoise, African Brass and Chinese Brass Coin Replica Artisan Tassel Necklace

Rhythm of the Orient has been sold, but if you like this style, let me know! I would love to work with you on a custom-designed piece of jewelry. Just send me a note at kelly@xogallery.com and we'll get started!

Sold Price: $350

Elegant and graceful, this super unique tassel style necklace is an Asian-inspired piece of art-to-wear. The gorgeous colors and variety of beads coupled with the intricately carved elephant bone centerpiece and the Chinese coin replica from the Song Dynasty make this necklace a true one-of-a-kind Oriental treasure.

A trumpeting elephant is hand-carved on either side of this spectacular, mammoth-size, antique bone bead from China. A jungle-like scene is depicted with trees, mountains and additional elaborate details. Antique bone rings and beads are added throughout the necklace to maintain the Oriental rhythm and overall harmony of this designer artisan piece of jewelry.

The vivid green beads are actually turquoise that has been dyed to obtain these brilliant hues of greens, browns, yellows, and blues. Adding still more depth and energy to the beads is their natural texture and marble-style matrixing. The orange gemstones are crazy lace agate and they have a very similar character to the green turquoise, but with the orange, white, and brown tones. These two gemstones complement one another being naturally rugged in style while maintaining a necessary contrast in color and form. Beautifully hand-crafted Bali sterling silver triangle beads create the perfect transition between these two gemstones and add to the unique style and texture of this Oriental themed necklace.

Distinctively African brass beads are used throughout the piece, often serving to frame particular beads or components. Although ancient in appearance, many of these beads are newly made in Ghana or Cameroon. The bicone brass beads at the ends of the tassel are actually African trade beads that were recently discovered in Cameroon. I use African brass in more pieces than any other type of bead, as it adds so much raw soul and flavor to every piece of jewelry it touches.

The unique medallion style pendant at the end of the tassel is in fact a brass replica of an antique Chinese coin from the Song Dynasty. There are inscriptions on both sides and the coin has been nicely antiqued giving it a true ancient look. These coin plates were used to represent larger denominations than regular round coins and were the precursor to paper money.

Rhythm of the Orient is a long, graceful necklace that has wonderful balance and harmony. I think of it as having obtained a jewelry or fashion feng shui. It is 22 inches around the neck with the tassel reaching an additional 9 inches. It closes with a large brass lobster clasp.