Lapis Necklaces
(270 items)Discover NOVICA's Lapis Necklaces Collection. From elegant pendants to cabochon-encrusted statement pieces, you'll discover unique lapis earrings handcrafted by artisans from around the world to showcase the deep blue color of this beautiful gemstone.
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.
Precious metals and natural gemstones are the most popular materials for women's necklaces. Silver, gold and brass all provide durability as well as beauty. Artisans also utilize local materials that can include coconut shells, bamboo, bright African print fabrics, ceramic beads, natural amber, carved bone and bull horn. Both Peru and Mexico have rich silver mines and silver is used for traditional jewelry as well as contemporary designs.
Women's 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.
Featured Reviews on Lapis Necklaces
Quartz and lapis lazuli pendant necklace, 'Wild Moon'
By Tara
I am so in love!
The description of this necklace is accurate. I would like to add that the clear quartz that hangs from the curved silver bead is a beautiful shape. It is rectangular except the top and bottom of the rectangle have a point. The rectangle is also three dimensional with six sides. The back is a flat facet and then there are two smaller facets with two more facets leading up to the table that is at the front of the rectangle. The quartz is around .3 inches wide. This necklace is just lovely! I really love wearing it! I would also like to say, once again, how impressed I am by Novica s customer service. There was a slight problem with my order and they went above and beyond to get it right. I have an addiction to handmade jewelry and the artisans I find at Novica are truly amazing!
Lapis lazuli waterfall necklace, 'Queen of Diamonds'
By Linda
Gorgeous necklace!
This is a beautiful piece that far exceeded my expectations. The lapis lazuli stones hang perfectly and the necklace has a good weight that proves its high quality. I cant wait to wear it for with a black evening dress as well as with nice work outfits.
Lapis lazuli and citrine pendant necklace, 'Two Teardrops'
By Joseph
A meaningful gift
I was drawn to this site because of the way the artists are given a spotlight on their works of art. I was intrigued by stones used and the setting used by the artist. It was a gift to my wife and she just adored the piece. I was very happy with the shipping costs and the quickness of receiving the piece
Featured Artist
"Collecting jewelry and gemstones has been my passion ever since childhood."
The artistry of Neeru Goel has been featured in Depth magazine.
"Hi! My name is Neeru Goel and I was born on September 19, 1960. I spent most of my childhood in Kolkata, a metropolis in West Bengal. Collecting... read more
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Lapis Necklaces
Flowers blossom with lapis petals in the bold designs of Thai silversmiths. The gem's blue glow offers harmonious balance to amethyst rings and necklaces, and a perfect contrast in carnelian necklaces. P.C. Gupta showcases lapis lazuli in the extraordinary design of marble inlay chess sets and boxes.
A Lapis Lazuli Necklace from Novica is destined to be treasured as a timeless keepsake, especially for the September born. As a choker, long necklace, or strand, the natural beauty of lapis is inspirational.
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