Kantha beads are wooden beads wrapped in dyed sari cloth.  Handmade by women artisans in India, Each bead is unique. This necklace is made by a fair trade collective I have been doing business with for more than 20 years. They were happy to see the name of the shop on the order and sent me a great email. Yes, one can make friends by pursuing crafts. I love them because they are infinitely creative and their goods have always been fair trade. Basic necklace is 5 strands of beads on a 17 inch base, plus chains 7 1/2  inches  lightweight.