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Mid-Mod Tagua Necklace

Item P11742

$48.00

Description

Modernist shapes meet classic mid-century pastels in this necklace from the Ecuadorian rainforest. Hand-carved from surprisingly lightweight tagua nut, also known as vegetable ivory.

Details + Dimensions

• Handmade in Ecuador
• Tagua nut, faux leather cord
• Adjustable 31–48"L

Story

In South America’s tropical rainforests, the ivory palm tree is just one of many species that provide shelter and sustenance for humans and animals alike. One way to preserve these critical ecosystems from deforestation and development is to find sustainable uses for the forest’s bounty.

Each ivory palm tree produces bushels of seed pods a year, with every pod containing up to 100 nuts called tagua. When tagua nuts are harvested and dried, they become as hard as elephant ivory—equally beautiful, but cruelty-free. Bombona seeds, açai berries, pambil palm seeds, windblown branches of all kinds… local artisans work in the spirit of creativity and sustainability to harvest and transform these natural gifts into expressive, lightweight jewelry. We love the look, and we love knowing that these pieces contribute to a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem for local communities and the world beyond.

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