Brass Necklaces
(439 items)Discover NOVICA's Brass Necklaces Collection. From simple pendants to multi-strand statement necklaces, our unique collection showcases traditional and contemporary brass designs, handcrafted by global artisans.
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 Brass Necklaces
Amethyst and peridot choker, 'Floral Joy'
By Annetta
Festive and Feminine
This is such a pretty statement piece that my granddaughter willlove and cherish for many years and occasions to come!
Gold-accented orchid petal pendant necklace, 'Orchid Magic in Blue'
By Heather
Been Buying from Danai for 10+ Years; Still in Awe!
I bought my very first piece of jewelry art from Danai over 10 years ago; a beautifully dainty pink orchid necklace. I was so inspired, so in awe of his creations that it literally inspired me to start making resin jewelry of my own. Ive come pretty far, but I still cant even come close to his level of mastery! This is probably the 5th or 6th piece Ive purchased from him over the years for myself, definitely at least the 15th purchase in total when including gifts and such. Yet each time I open a new box, I still find myself gasping in awe! Orchid Magic is just stunningly beautiful! The colors are deep and rich, the resin is perfectly applied (and believe me, I now know how HARD that is to do!!), and the gold accents on the edges of the petals is just enough without being too much. Its just sheer perfection and Im sure Ill be buying more over the next decade. Keep it up, Danai! Your work is LOVED!
Cultured pearl and rose quartz beaded necklace, 'Eden'
By ANA
Gemstone Necklace
This is the second time I buy a necklace from Nareerat and the craftsmanship of her items are perfection. The necklace is beautiful! Thank you Nareerat, keep up your wonderful work. :)
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