Mother of Pearl & Abalone Cross Necklace

This beautiful cross pendant is handcrafted by Bethlehem’s local artisans according to the age-old tradition of carving Mother of Pearl. It is designed in two layers.  The back layer is an ornately carved pearlescent white Mother of Pearl and the top layer is a cross carved in iridescent Abalone with rich blues and greens.

The cross is the ultimate symbol of the Christian faith, communicating the sacrificial love of God. The cross Jesus died on was an instrument of torture used by the Romans occupying the first-century Holy Land. According to the New Testament, Jesus’ death and resurrection made it possible for us to receive forgiveness of our sins and reconciliation with God (Romans 5:8). The cross is thus transformed into a symbol of life and love.

The making of jewelry and decorative items from Mother of Pearl is perhaps Bethlehem’s oldest and most established industry. The practice supposedly came to Bethlehem in the 15th century with the arrival of Franciscan friars. Locals soon mastered the art and made a modest living selling handmade items to the many pilgrims who streamed into Bethlehem.