Samburu w/ Ethiopian Cross Necklace (18-11)

This necklace is comprised of Samburu and Eja beads with a Silver Ethiopian Cross, measures approximately 16″ in length, Cross Pendant 1 1/8″w x 1 3/4″h

Samburu Beads: Once only belonged to the ‘chiefs’ from the Samburu tribes. Given to them by explorers in exchange for safe passage through their land. Passed on to the young tribesmen for acts of bravery and eventually given to young girls as an act of love. These famous “Samburu” beads communicate social status for both men and women. A beautiful girl has many admirers who make gifts of these beads. A girl would often have a substantial collection of these beads, which she would turn into necklaces, indicating her desirability, therefor securing a marriage proposal. Samburu beads are believed to enhance the wearer’s fertility and are coveted for their ochre (red) color.

Eja Beads: Often reffered to as mini-chevrons because of its striped pattern. They were often used as a type of currency and exchanged for palm oil on the West coast of Africa.