This Fair Trade Afghan turquoise bead necklace weighs 134.8 and measures 16 inches long and approximately 1-2 inches wide. This painstakingly hand-carved turquoise Fair Trade necklace incorporates 100 strands of cotton-strung spherical Artisinal Afghan turquoise beads, measuring 1.5mm in diameter, graded 'medium ?turquoise' color. These superbly matched strands are attached at both ends and complemented by a braided cotton tassels for attachment around the neck.

Afghanistan is the source of some of the world's finest emeralds, rubies, lapis lazuli, sapphires, tourmalines and aquamarines. The quality and appeal of Afghanistan's jewelry and gemstones reflects the country's rich and exotic cultural heritage. Working directly with miners, the Government of Afghanistan's Ministry of Mines, and local and international gemstone dealers, the US Government and its implementing partners in Afghanistan have been stimulating the gems and jewelry industry at all points along the value chain, from mines to markets, emphasizing on 'fair-trade' working practices, social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

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