From South Luangwa to Milan: The Story of a One-of-a-Kind Zambian Emerald Necklace
- Divaison Kumwenda
- Nov 21
- 3 min read
Over the past few months, something extraordinary has been happening in the heart of South Luangwa. Our young jewellers at Mwezi Blu have been working not just with their hands, but with their hearts, crafting a piece we believe the world deserves to see.
A piece created for purpose. A piece born from community. A piece that speaks to everyone.
Today, we proudly share with you the story of The Milan Piece, Zambian Rivière Necklace with 2.1ct Zambian Emerald, set in Zambian Sterling Silver and 9K Yellow Gold, adorned with 15 ethically sourced, hand-cut Zambian gemstones.
This is not just jewellery. It is a statement of a Mwezi Blu future.
A Mission Rooted in Home
At Mwezi Blu, giving back is not a slogan, it is our foundation. Our mission has always been to uplift communities locally and internationally through ethical craftsmanship, youth empowerment, and sustainable practices.
When we received the invitation to participate in the Italy Meets Jamaica Charity Event (Second Edition) taking place in Milan, proceeds will support the BREDS Jamaica Foundation in building a new library and garden for Sand Bank Primary School and Pedro Plains Primary School, as well as Hurricane Mellissa relief projects, we knew we had to be part of this global movement.
This was a call to impact. A call we couldn’t ignore.
The Making of the Milan Piece
The story of this piece unfolded step by step, shaped by the hands and hearts of our team. Every small action, every careful adjustment, and every skill applied brought the concept closer to reality.
It was a process guided by experience, craftsmanship, and purpose, gradually transforming a simple idea into the piece we now celebrate. What followed was the hands-on creation that would bring this vision to life as the Milan Piece.
Where Gemstones Speak
To us, gemstones are more than materials. They are storytellers.
Each one is ethically sourced from small-scale miners across Zambia, miners we know, miners whose hard work allows us to trace every stone back to its origin.
We selected 15 of the finest gemstones, each chosen with intention, each representing our region.
Our gem cutter Dave shaped them with precision, respecting the design that began on a blank canvas.
Crafted by Young Hands, Rooted in Tradition
Our young jewellers, born and raised in South Luangwa, trained at Mwezi Blu, and passionate about this ancient craft brought the design to life, giving the piece an unmistakable South Luangwa touch.
After days of work, sampling, altering. After countless refinements and pouring everything we have into it…
The piece finally came to life.
Introducing: The Milan Piece
A masterpiece crafted in the wilderness. A necklace born from teamwork. A symbol of ethical luxury. A story from Zambia to the world.
The Milan Piece along with many other prizes will be silent auctioned online and each organisation involved celebrated at the Italy Meets Jamaica Charity Gala in Milan.
This is history in the making. A rare moment where a piece crafted in the heart of South Luangwa stands on an international stage for a global purpose.
If you'd like to stand a chance to win this incredible piece, curated with purpose and a rich story, then click here to view and place your bid.
Explore more of our handcrafted pieces below and discover the beauty of Zambian artistry.
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