Own a piece of history! This rare antique, handmade Ethiopian Orthodox Christian cross is double sided & hinged and can be worn on either the richly detailed front side or the more subtle, minimalist back side. Hand strung on earthy turquoise beads with vintage tribal silver accent beads, this special cross necklace is a showstopper! An extension chain has been added for flexibility with a tiny turquoise dangle that hangs at the nap of the neck.
One-of-a-Kind
Historic Note: According to the Smithsonian Institute, during the 19th and 20th centuries, Ethiopian craftsmen, with few sources of silver, would melt down the 18th century Austrian Maria Theresa Thaler coin (circulating in that region at the time) because it was 83% silver! This cross has all the markings of a handmade piece made in the "lost cast" method (making it one-of-a-kind) made from a melted Thaler coin.
Measurements: 17 inches, with 3 1/2 inch extension chain. Cross is 3 inches long.
