Artisan Crafted Sterling Silver Necklace from West Africa, "Queen Yaa Asantewaa"

“My name is Rebecca Ama Eshun. I’m from Ghana and I craft jewelry. My friends say I am kind, focused, consistent and always aim for excellence in whatever I do.

“I became interested in jewelry when I was in secondary school. My father worked with a jewelry company that valued diamonds, and he introduced me to jewelry.

“I earned an art degree in metal product design once I graduated from the university. To master this craft I had to take courses and examinations in the area of metal design, and I interned at several companies during my vacations from school.

“Starting on my own was a big challenge for me. My ex-husband never gave me the support he promised when he was going to marry me. I had to raise funds to start my venture. In the meantime, my friend has a workshop with tools I need, but don’t yet own.

“This art allows me to be creative and make beautiful designs. I use gold and silver. My favorite thing about my work is how I am able to express myself without restrictions. I’m inspired by plants, trees and nature and making good use of my Ghanaian traditional Adinkra symbols which depict the emotion and consciousness of my people. I expect high quality standards from any artisan who helps me craft my designs.

“One of the most difficult moments in my life was getting back on my feet as a single parent after getting a divorce. I went through so much abuse and intimidation from my ex-husband, which made me lose my sense of worth and respect and my dignity as a woman. He never wanted me to work and become an independent career woman. I am happy I overcame it, because I’m no longer sad, but hopeful and expectant that all I have lost and am looking for can be realized in my life someday.

“My hope is to get established properly as a registered company and expand my workshop to be a blessing to my community. My dream is to get back to school to further my education and improve my skills.”