Description
Pumtek beads are originally from Myanmar, where they were called Thunderbolt Beads due to people's belief that the fossilized palm wood they used to create and engrave them was forged by being struck by lightning. The beads are thought to give their wearer strength, resilience and protection. The bronze filigree amulet is also called a Croix d'Agadez or Southern Cross, and was traditionally given by nomadic Tuareg fathers to their sons as protective talismans. Giving your son this cross showing North, South, East and West really meant 'I give you all four corners of the world'. I combined the beads with antique brick red jasper and a handmade sterling silver magnetic claspThese filigree crosses have been made for hundreds of years by North Africa's nomadic communities to protect travellers from harm. The Sahara is one of the harshest places on earth, so safe passage was paramount. Pumtek beads were originally made from fossilized palm wood but these antique pieces were created from agate. The patterns are very traditional and only found in beads from the exact region of Myanmar.
