Necklace made from old corals and silver beads

Unusual necklace made from three old corals and silver beads. The necklace is fastened with a silver T-clasp, measures 48 cm in circumference and weighs 37.8 g. Handmade in the Atelier Tibet in Zurich.

Coral has a deep spiritual and cultural significance in traditional Tibetan jewelry. The red precious coral (Corallium rubrum) is particularly prized. In combination with turquoise and silver, coral beads are a characteristic element of Tibetan prayer beads(malas), amulets and ritual jewelry. As Tibet is a landlocked highland, coral was imported from the Mediterranean and the Southeast Asian region via centuries-old trade routes. Nowadays, precious coral is strictly protected, which is why modern Tibetan jewelry is made with old, recycled coral or sustainable alternatives.