VINTAGE MAASAI TRADE BEAD NECKLACE

The Maasai believe that their ancestors came down from Mount Kenya at the beginning of time. Their name for the mountain is Ol Donyo Keri – "mountain of stripes" – because of the dark shades and shadows seen on its slopes from the surrounding plains. 

This necklace is made from vintage trade beads, a mix of black and porcelain, sourced from the Maasai and strung on natural leather cording. The beads were collected by them from different sources and grouped together by color — expect varying shades of white, off-white and cream in the porcelain beads. Chips and pitting on the beads are evidence of previous journeys and trade routes. 

Whether you're coming down from the mountain or ascending it, plunging into dark waters or emerging from them, we hope this necklace serves as a proper accessory for countless adventures.

Necklace length: 30"
Bead size: 3-4 mm