Ninety percent of all alstroemerias, or lilies of the Incas, and carnations purchased in the U.S. come from Colombia. Colombian native artisan Martha Lopez brings her country’s floriculture to life in this Lily of the Incas Totumo Seed Necklace.
The 17-inch long cord of this necklace is fabricated of lush velvet suede lace. An oval Totumo seed hangs from this triple-strand cord. Tufts of floral petals are etched into the surface of the seed to give it a blooming lily effect. For a perfectly matched ensemble, select our Lily of the Incas Totumo Seed Earrings.
Read more about artisan Martha Lopez
A South American genus of about 50 species of flowering plants, the lily of the Incas uniquely twists from its base so that what appears to be the upper leaf surface is in fact the lower leaf surface.
The Totumo tree sheds fruit year round. The seeds from these fruits come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, inspiring jewelry artisans like Blue Gobi’s Martha Lopez. Once picked the seeds are left to weather and dry in the sun. They are then cut open and the seeds are scooped out. Before they are ready to work with, another drying session takes place in the sun for a few days. After this second drying, they are ready to sand, cut and polish into the required shapes and sizes.
This necklace is 17 inches and secures with a silver claps.
- Handmade in Colombia by Martha Lopez
- Pendant is made of a large totumo seed and is painted by hand to portray a floral theme
- Sustainable and renewable source of material
- Dual toned leather cord is made of velvet suede and is soft to the touch
- Each necklace is unique and can vary from the picture since natural material tends to vary from piece to piece
The natural fibers in this necklace’s totumo seeds require special attention. This necklace should be stored in a cool, dry place and should never be immersed in water. Apply all liquid cosmetics prior to wearing and allow them to dry first before putting on this necklace.
The velvet suede cord should be cared for as any fine leather: 1) cleaning with a cleanser that will preserve its natural oils; 2) conditioning to keep it supple and 3) protecting it with a moisture barrier.