Pearls of Life – Glass Bracelet

The pearls of life made of glass: The concept is simple yet really delivers. 18 pearls in your hand and each one has its own meaning. A question in life, a thought, a prayer. Attached to a pearl bracelet the pearls can act as an emblem for the way of life. They make faith tangible and encourage us to rediscover the Christian tradition and understand it in a whole new way. They’re a catechism (a lesson in faith) for your hands, a simple aid to find one’s own spiritual path and to practice faith. The pearls help to interrupt the everyday for a moment and to return to one’s self, to others and to God.

Swedish Bishop Martin Lönnebo actually wanted to write a book about the Christian faith. However, as he observed the Greek fishermen with their pearl chains he came across the idea of the pearl bracelets. The resonance surrounding is was surprisingly large. For many Christians in Scandinavia pearls of life have simply come to belong to daily life in the meantime.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:45-46)

Caution: Similarly to fashion pieces, the bead of God’s golden shine can be worn away by frequent use, sweat, water, perfumes or crèmes.

18 beads, glass and brass, fair trade production.

The “pearls of life” are produced in India in partnership with Divine Chocolate Scandinavia, a house of fair trade in Sweden, and Tara Projects in accordance with fair trade criteria. The pearls are crafted by hand in a village in Northern India and made into bracelets by Tara Projects in New Delhi. Between 40 and 50 families in the village receive guaranteed provisions with the production of the pearls. Children in the village can go to a school which Tara Projects built partially funded by the income from the “pearls of life” and don’t need to work. Tara Projects guarantees good working conditions, fair wages and a chance for people to develop new skills. The position of women is strengthened and the rights of children are protected.

By purchasing “pearls of life” you’re supporting the education and income of a number of families in India.