Y Necklaces

104 items

NOVICA’s Y-Necklaces are handcrafted by jewelry artisans from around the world.

The Village Council

Your answers straight from the village experts

+ - How do I know if my necklace is handmade?

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.

+ - What makes a necklace eco-friendly?

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.

+ - What are the classic techniques for making women’s necklaces?

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.

+ - What are the most common materials for making women’s necklaces?

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.

+ - What is the best way to wear women’s necklaces?

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.

+ - What are the signs of a well-made necklace?

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.

+ - Are there specific cultural symbols used in womens necklaces?

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

Amazonite Y-necklace, 'Blue Dew'

Dale

Oct 23, 2019

A Design Like No Other

Wow. This is a very unique, feminine, delicate piece that is so lovely. The beautiful amazonite against the highly-polished silver is striking and delightful. The silver "branches" lie flat and comfortable because they are not fused but instead are held together with silver links. Thus they "drape" wonderfully down the neck and chest. The creator is a true artist; the flowing design of this piece is marvelous. You will not find other necklaces like this. Bravo!

Attractive Jewelry

Delicate

Gifts For Wife

Good Wedding Anniversary Gifts

Sterling silver pendant necklace, 'Tree Bell'

Rochelle

Sep 21, 2021

Delicate statement of enduring meaning

Ari's work here reflects a careful and thoughtful hand. It makes a true statement in a gentle and delicate way.

Jewelry Trees

Y Necklace Jewelry

Pendant Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Silver Jewelry

No Stone Jewelry

Leaf and Tree Jewelry

Jewelry

Lapis lazuli and citrine Y-necklace, 'Dew Blossom'

Clio

Dec 8, 2020

So beautiful!

Works really well with dark blue sweaters and blouses. Perfect for Zoom meetings. Adds some classic color.

A Dressy Necklace

Can't Get Enough Of The Yellow Citrine

Cool Necklaces

Firefly Jewelry

Leaf Necklaces

Natural Stone Necklaces

Necklace Blue Silver

Royal Blue Necklace!

September's Birthstone

Stand Out Jewelry Piece

Featured Artist

Neeru Goel Sterling silver and gemstone jewelry

(2379)

"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

What is Rose Gold Jewelry?

When it comes to gifts for mom, wife, or daughter, some may rush to the jeweler’sor their favorite... read more

What Type of Necklace Should I Wear With a Turtleneck?

When it’s cold outside (or perhaps even inside, thanks to coworkers who like to keep the thermostat at... read more

More useful facts

Y Necklace Necklaces

Born in Bangkok, Lilly Rahmann began her journey creating the most beautiful crafts since the age of four. Her Y Necklaces are the perfect accessory to any outfit with a variety of different gemstones and graceful pearls delicately set in sterling silver. NOVICA Y necklaces come in a variety of different gems and colors, like those of Mexico’s Francisco Sánchez. His intricately embroidered Y necklaces are inspired by traditional Mayan designs that are sure to add a unique flare as they beautifully accentuate necklines.