Komboloi Necklace

Whether Christian, Buddhist, Eastern Orthodox, or Muslim, nearly every culture and religion of the world has their own set of worry beads (rosary, mala, misbaha, prayer rope, or Komboloi).  Whatever the name or religion associated with these beads they all share great commonality in the function they serve, to bring peace and relieve the anxieties of those who wear them through quiet contemplation as one fingers through each and every bead. According to Greek tradition, the Orthodox monks of Mount Athos made the first set of worry beads to assist them in their prayers. In modern Greek Komboloi (κομπολόι) is derived from κομβολόγιον (κόμβος) "knot" +  (λόγιο) "collection".  Today, in contemporary Greek culture, they are considered a good luck amulet, men carry them instead of smoking and women use them for accessory & adornment.

We like to call them "Don't Worry, Be Happy Beads"! ©

This piece was a special surprise commission for a very special Greek Othodox girl in Florida over the Christmas holiday, Maria-Tina Karamanlakis created this custom Komboloi using stones and beads she has collected from all over the world.  Turquoise, lapis, quartz crystal, onyx, black tourmaline, garnet, rose quartz, amethyst, baroque pearl, hematite, goldstone, amber, vintage glass, hand crafted sterling silver beads and Maria-Tina Signature clasp in sterling silver.