• These one-of-a-kind necklaces are meticulously hand strung by our friend Joan exclusively for DharmaShop.
• We sent her 4 special Pumtek beads that she paired with an eclectic mix of vintage Bali silver, African trade beads, and true turquoise.  Absolutely no detail was spared on these incredible heirloom necklaces!
• A wearable work of art, this captivating design creates a harmonious blend of old and new.  The fossilized wood inspired by ancient artisans combines with the vibrant energy of modern design.  

The word Pumtek means, "buried thunderbolt" and these Pumtek beads are among the rarest and most sought after collectable beads in the world.  These beads are made of opalized wood, a material that is indigenous to Burma where the beads originated.  Opalized wood occurs when wood is fossilized and turned into stone, making these beads extremely unique.

On a trip to Nepal in the early 2000's, DharmaShop founder, Sander Cohen, was able to source a handful of incredible heirloom-style Pumtek necklaces made using these vintage fossilized wood beads from Burma.  These necklaces were modeled after the prized ancient heirloom necklaces worn by the Chin people thousands of years ago.

Ancient beads like this would be priceless, and in the last decade even the vintage and antique Pumtek beads have become incredibly hard to source.  We were so excited to find that Sander still had two of these amazing necklaces in his personal collection from which we were able to make a small batch of exclusive necklaces.

Sizing:

Measures approximately 18-20 inches around.  Pumtek bead is just under 1 inch.