I named this bracelet “Astral Echoes”. The name reflects the celestial “STAR” design of the Mudcloth beads and the spiritual connection with the wood-carved Buddha head beads, resonating with the bracelet’s blend of tradition and artistry.

This exquisite bracelet stands as a unique treasure, showcasing a harmonious blend of cultural artistry and intricate craftsmanship. At its heart lie the Tibetan silver repoussé beads, whose embossed patterns provide a soft cushion to the vibrant array of ethnic beads that flank them. These ethnic beads serve as a prelude to the central attraction: the Mudcloth Batik Bone beads and the wood-carved Buddha head beads.

The Mudcloth beads, originating from Kenya, Africa, are a testament to the traditional “batik” method—a meticulous wax relief process. The beads are adorned with a captivating “STAR” motif that encircles it entirely, offering a visual delight from every angle.

The creation of these beads is a labor of love and precision. Artisans meticulously paint wax onto the bone beads to form the desired patterns. Subsequently, the beads are immersed in a natural vegetable dye, which imparts a rich, dark hue to the exposed areas. Once the dye has set, the wax is carefully removed, unveiling the striking design that echoes the iconic African “bogolanfini” fabric, commonly known as mudcloth.

Embracing the Mudcloth beads are the exceptionally aged and scarce Poppy Seed Jasper beads. These beads are not only rare but also encased in ornately designed silver caps, adding a touch of opulence to the piece. In addition, a large vintage Oxblood coral bead is included creating an even more dramatic effect.

The bracelet’s length is a generous 9 inches from end to end, complemented by an additional 2.5-inch silver extender ending with a hamsa. The hamsa is a protective sign, believed to bring the owner happiness, health and good fortune, and is popularly used in the Middle East and North Africa. The hamsa hand has a variety of meanings and interpretations, depending on the culture. For example, in the Islamic faith, it symbolises The Hand of Fatima, the daughter of the Prophet Mohammed. In the Sunni culture, the hamsa is associated with the Five Pillars of Islam, whereas for the Shi’tes, it symbolises the Five People of the Cloak.

The additional extender allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that it gracefully adorns the wrist of its wearer. Each element of this bracelet has been thoughtfully selected and assembled to create a piece that is not just jewelry, but a wearable piece of art, rich in history and meaning.

An original creation by Gray Wolf Collections.

All our products are individually handmade by Mariagrazia in our Montana studio, from carefully sourced materials to original Gray Wolf Collections designs. Each piece is unique with its own individual