Sidai Designs Long Endito Necklace

Why We Love This

This long white beaded necklace looks like a work of art, because it is one. We love the contrast between the delicate, whimsical strands of hanging white beads and the strong, solid strap of suede they’re on.

Story

This necklace is elegant and also moving when considering the story behind the making of it. The work is a collaboration between the Maasai women in Tanzania and Sidai Designs. The Massai are a semi-nomadic warrior tribe known for their distinctive dress and unique customs. Their heritage and traditions, especially their use of white in their tribal wear, are reflected in this necklace. Like all of Sidai’s jewelry, the Long Leather Necklace is handmade using traditional techniques. The glass beads are intricately joined using thread salvaged from old grain bags. This collection helps preserve the Maasai beading traditions and sustains the Maasai women and their families economically.

About the Maker

Sidai means good or beautiful in the Maasai tribal language, Maa. Sidai Designs is a socially driven enterprise with a workshop based in Arusha in Northern Tanzania that employs more than 50 Maasai women. The company creates contemporary luxury beaded jewelry, based on traditional Maasai beading techniques and artistry. Founded in 2011 as a non-profit, Sidai Designs supports Tanzanian Maasai women by providing economic empowerment, fair wages and by using fair trade practices. Sidai Designs is passionate in its mission to overcome poverty and improve women’s social standing; it also provides tremendous hope and a sense of purpose.