Sumalee
Multicolor Necklace Beaded Jewelry Knotted by Hand 'Songkran Belle'
- Regular price
- $29.99
- Sale price
- $29.99
- Regular price
This 'Songkran Belle' necklace by Independent Artisans is a beautiful testament to the power of transformation and community. Inspired by her journey from hardship to empowerment, Sumalee Nawakul hand-knots ten strands of vibrant, rice-shaped beads carved from littleleaf boxwood. The result is a lightweight and colorful necklace that embodies the vibrant spirit of Thai craftsmanship. It represents not only her own success but also her dedication to uplifting others, as she works with older community members who find purpose and income through her designs. This piece is a celebration of simple beauty and the profound joy of helping others, making it a truly meaningful accessory.
Sumalee, from Isan in northeastern Thailand, grew up surrounded by flowers, silkworms, and textiles woven by her grandmother and aunt. After leaving school early due to financial hardship, she supported herself through jobs in Thai dessert shops and later with a Christian nonprofit, where she spent 17 years helping the elderly find small sources of income. Exhausted but determined, she pursued several ventures before discovering her path in jewelry. Inspired by simple wooden beads, she began threading colorful necklaces by hand and selling them on the streets. Tourists admired their lightweight beauty and affordability, and her work slowly gained recognition. Today, her designs transform humble beads into vibrant jewelry, crafted with the help of older community members who find both purpose and income through the work. For Sumalee, jewelry is not only a livelihood but also a way to uplift others while celebrating Thai craftsmanship.
Hand-knotted in Thailand with littleleaf boxwood beads and waxed polyester cord, this 25.5-inch long necklace fastens with a toggle clasp.
us117-24342
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