This necklace tells the story of a woman who lives in a world of oppression and violence but still finds a way to express her faith and culture through the art of beads. Her name is Nala, and she is from Botswana, a country in southern Africa.

Nala grew up in a village where beads were more than just ornaments - they were symbols of identity, spirituality, and heritage. Her mother taught her how to make and wear them with pride and reverence. She loved the colors and shapes of the beads and how they reflected her personality and beliefs.

But when Nala was 15, her life changed forever. A man from another tribe kidnapped her and forced her to be his wife. He had many other wives and treated them with cruelty and contempt. He beat them, starved them, and forbade them from wearing anything that made them feel beautiful or happy. He even left scars on Nala's neck from his brutal attacks.

One day, Nala met a woman who changed her life. She was a traveler to Jerusalem who had come to visit the local market. She was fascinated by Nala's beads and asked her where she was from and what they meant. Nala told her everything - her story, her culture, her faith. The woman listened with compassion and admiration. That woman was me.

I asked Nala if I could make a necklace for her using the beads that she had. Nala agreed, and I spent a week working on it with love and care. I wanted to give Nala something that would represent her spirit and strength.

When I finished the necklace, I showed it to her. It was a stunning piece of art made with beautiful natural stones and matte beads. Nala was speechless. She took the necklace, put it on, and performed a graceful religious dance, an incantation for the necklace. A blessing that would protect the wearer from harm and bring them joy.
And now, this gorgeous necklace shines with the message of faith and culture - proof that despite oppression and violence, we can find a way to express our identity and values and celebrate our beauty and joy.

From,
Gary Schwartz