VELA

Vela means light and elegant — just like this necklace. I have only made two of these necklaces. They are created with delicate round white freshwater pearls in varying sizes. I handcrafted the necklace one pearl at a time. The nearly round white freshwater pearls have been carefully selected for their soft luster, and between several of them I hand-tie small knots. This is an ancient pearl-knotting technique that originated in China and later Japan, and has been used for generations, especially in traditional pearl craftsmanship. Originally, the knots were used to protect the pearls from rubbing against one another and to prevent the entire necklace from being lost if the strand were to break. To me, the knots are also a clear mark of quality. They give each pearl its own space, make the necklace more flexible, and create the beautiful, graceful drape that only a hand-knotted pearl necklace has. It is a process that requires time and care — but I enjoy feeling the craftsmanship in my hands, and I believe it gives the necklace a special sense of calmness and strength. The necklaces are adjustable and measure approximately 39.5–47 cm. The clasp and extension chain are made of gold-plated 925 sterling silver.