Lapis Lazulli and Tibetan Repousse Baoule Lariat Necklace

Artisan Jewelry : Necklaces : Lapis Lazulli : Tibetan : Repousse : Baoule : Lariat

 

Elegant, classic and dramatic! Rich in contrast, this is a beautiful Lapis Lazulli lariat necklace.

It was created using a mixture of Lapis Lazulli round, brass rondelle and Baoule beads separated by tiny link brass chain. The drop on one side is a Lapis Lazulli cylinder bead. The opposite end is a gorgeous Tibetan Repousse brass tubular bead.

Lapis Lazuli was known as sapphire in ancient times. The ancient Egyptians regard lapis lazuli as a favourite stone for amulets and ornaments such as scarabs. Lapis was also used by the Assyrians and Babylonians for seals. The Romans believed that lapis was a powerful aphrodisiac. In the Middle Ages, it was thought to keep the limbs healthy, and free the soul from error, envy and fear.

The Baoule create art in several media, including wooden sculpture, gold and brass casting similar to their Asante ancestors, and mask and figure carvings, which have been greatly influenced by their Senufo and Guro neighbors. The Baoule belong to the Akan peoples who inhabit Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire.

Repousse is the art of embossing or pressing shapes into thin metal to create a design. This process has been used since ancient times to make everything from jewelry to religious Icons. Its almost a lost art nowadays.

The round Lapis beads are 8mm and the Baoule beads are 10mm. The Lapis Lazulli cylinder bead is 29mm. The brass Repousse bead is 1.5" long. The proper length (functional portion) is 19" at its maximum. The total length end to end is 26.5".

Feel like royalty wearing this piece.

I am always happy to combine shipping on multiple items!

Item ID: N1223