Braided Cord Bracelet with Hill Tribe Silver Beads

• Hand-etched hilltribe silver beads of varying sizes
• Braided waxed cotton band
• Silver bead accents
• Adjustable s-hook closure
• Sold individually in a choice of color combinations
• Worn alone or stacked

Each silver bead is hand-etched and each band hand-braided, so small differences in pattern, shape and cord color are natural marks of handwork.

The silver beads are the work of Karen Hilltribe silversmiths in the mountains of northern Thailand, who work in unusually high-purity silver and shape each bead by hand rather than casting from a mold.

The patterns — dotted borders, leaves and small rosettes — are struck into the metal with hand punches, one strike at a time. Because each mark is placed by hand, no two beads read exactly the same on close inspection.

Pairing the silver with a braided cotton cord is a familiar move in Thai silverwork: it balances the weight and shine of the metal against a soft textile band that sits easily on the wrist.

• Technique: Karen Hilltribe silverwork

Wipe with a soft dry cloth after wear. Keep away from water, lotion and perfume to protect the silver's finish and the waxed cotton braid.