For 100,000 years, necklaces have been more than adornment; they’ve been talismans, symbols of status, and declarations of love. At Sundara Joon, we honor this rich heritage by reimagining these timeless designs. Our global artisans craft each piece with intention, transforming gemstones, crystals, and organic materials into one-of-a-kind treasures that carry both ancient wisdom and contemporary artistry. 

Join us on a journey through iconic necklace styles, their fascinating histories, and how each one celebrates the handmade.

The Collar: A Celebration of Wearable Art

Historical Context: With roots tracing back to ancient Egypt, the collar necklace was a symbol of divine protection for pharaohs and nobility. This regal, multi-strand style was later revived by Art Deco designers in the 1920s and embraced by power dressers in the 1980s.
What it is: Sitting high on the neck, our collar necklaces feature intricate beadwork or layered strands. They elegantly frame the face and shoulders, creating a dramatic, artful statement.
Example from Sundara Joon: The Floral Jade Drop Pendant Necklace begins with a collar-length design that blooms into a lush cluster of jade. It's a tribute to ancient artistry, reimagined by our Thai artisans.
Perfect for: The collector who views jewelry as wearable architecture and appreciates the commanding presence of a handcrafted statement piece. 

The Choker: An Emblem of Rebellion and Refinement

Historical Context: The choker has traveled a fascinating path, from an ancient protective amulet to an aristocratic accessory popularized by Princess Alexandra of Wales. Its most rebellious moment arrived during the French Revolution, when red ribbon chokers became symbols of solidarity. Later, the 1990s embraced the choker as a sign of alternative culture.
What it is: Snug against the neck, a choker draws attention to the face and collarbones.
Example from Sundara Joon: 

• Our Beaded Pearl Choker captures this dual spirit of history and defiance, bridging Victorian-era sophistication with contemporary, handcrafted design.

Perfect for: The woman who appreciates pieces with a story of cultural transformation, from rebellion to refinement.

The Torque: A Wearable Ritual of Power

Historical Context: The torque is an ancient and powerful jewelry form, with rigid, open-front necklaces worn by Celtic warriors as symbols of nobility and divine protection. Its tradition of spiritual and cultural significance spans across continents and centuries.
What it is: This structured, wearable sculpture rests on the neck with an open front.
Example from Sundara Joon: 

• Tribal Choker Length Necklace, inspired by the traditions of ancient Celtic craftsmanship.

• Necklace with Cascading Strands - when something unique is all that's required.

Perfect for: The collector who values ancient spiritual practices and sees jewelry as a talismanic, protective adornment.

The Pendant: A Personal Story in Miniature

Historical Context: From medieval knights wearing saint pendants for protection to Victorian lovers exchanging hair-filled lockets, the pendant has always been a vessel for personal stories. This tradition continues across cultures and faiths, making it one of the most versatile necklace styles.
What it is: The pendant can be anything from a single, meaningful charm to carved stone(s) suspended from a chain, and artist creativity has exploded the possibilities.
Examples from Sundara Joon:

• Flaming Heart Silver and Garnet Pendant Necklace

   

This piece celebrates the optimism of the Jazz Age, crafted by our Mexican artisan partner in Guadalajara, this one-of-a-kind necklace is something special.

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  Ivory Colored Gemstone with Organic Shaped Pendant

   

  An organic, design inspired by nature, with intricate details that show the maker's care.

• Evil Eye Jade Necklace

Delivers asymmetrical artistry with protective symbolism dating to ancient Mesopotamia, proving that ancient meaning can be beautifully modern.

Perfect for: The woman who loves to collect experiences and values pieces that hold deep personal or cultural meaning. 

The Lariat: A Symbol of Liberation and Style

The Chain Link: Timeless Craftsmanship for Today

Why Our Necklaces are More than Jewelry

• Empowering Artisans: Your purchase provides a fair and steady income, fostering economic dignity.
• Preserving Culture: You help protect traditional techniques from being lost to mass production.
• Collecting a Story: You take home a unique piece of wearable art, crafted with intention and care.

Discover the necklace that speaks to you and become part of its story. These pieces are for the individualist.