Uniquely set in ancient hand-woven metallic silk lace, this necklace features a breathtaking display of suspended rare antique gold-tone beads and hand dyed pearls. Nigerian-born artist and fine-jeweler, Shirley Ephraim, (one of the world’s last rare hand weavers) meticulously hand crafts this stunning body necklace over the course of several days. This limited, one-of a kind trademarked signature armor necklace is truly a work of art, distinctively creating the illusion of remarkably draped, free-floating elements along the body of its wearer. This piece is signed by the artist.
About Shirley Ephraim:
SHIRLEY EPHRAIM Fine Earth Jewelry is an intricately crafted collection of handmade fine jewelry inspired by the artistry of ancient hand weaving and lace making techniques. Reviving the old world luxury of precious and rare jewelry pieces, the SHIRLEY EPHRAIM Fine Earth Jewelry recalls early traditions in jewelry making. Luxurious silk fibers are hand-distressed, sculpted, and woven, creating sophisticated textures and shapes that adorn and effortlessly drape against the female form. Metals in the collection include reclaimed precious gold, 19th century sterling silver, and the artist’s signature hand-brushed, ancient lost-wax cast “Cire Perdue” brass and bronze.
Shirley Ephraim is an established couture fine-jewelry designer whose collections have been featured in ITALIAN VOGUE, JCK, HAUTE LIVING and the Academy Award nominated film The Visitor. She has also designed exclusive capsule collections for Donna Karan Collection showcased during New York Fashion Week and sold at Bergdorf Goodman, Donna Karan London, and Milan. The collection has been showcased during Paris Fashion Week during Vendôme Luxury at the world renowned Plaza Vendôme.
Shirley Ephraim has also partnered with The Nature Conservancy to raise awareness and funds to help protect the Coral Triangle, home to more than half of the world’s endangered coral species and reefs. As well as a women’s artisan Fair Trade Collective in the Philippines who skillfully hand craft the distinctive SHIRLEY EPHRAIM Fine Earth Jewelry “Carton-Pierre” (French for ‘stone carton’) packaging. Partnerships as these provide these women with economic security from fair wages, better living conditions, and access to an education.
Value: $5,000.00
Generously donated by Shirley Ephraim
