Silyanka "Lado"

This beaded necklace is a replica of a historical Ukrainian beadwork piece. The original example is preserved in the private collection of Vasyl Vyshyvanyi. Its exact place of origin remains unknown, yet the ornamental structure reflects bead collars widely worn in Ukraine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The composition is built around a rhythm of diamonds with crosses — one of the oldest symbolic motifs in Ukrainian ornamental tradition. In traditional symbolism, this sign represents a seeded field — a powerful image of fertility, life, and the continuity of family lineage.
The lower edge of the necklace forms an openwork lattice of colorful arches.
Such delicate beadwork edges were typical for festive bead collars and were designed to create a sense of movement and lightness.
Through its ornament, this piece carries the language of ancient symbols — a story about life, the sun, and the continuity of generations.
The reconstruction pattern for this ornament was created by Liliia Kvitka, while the beadwork piece itself was recreated by Comely UA.

Symbolism:
The ornament of this necklace is built around several traditional symbols that appear throughout Ukrainian folk art.
The diamond with a small dot inside is one of the oldest motifs in Ukrainian ornament.
In traditional symbolism, it represents a seeded field — a powerful image of fertility, life, and the continuation of family lineage.
The cross within the diamond strengthens this meaning and symbolizes the balance of the world and the union of the four elements — earth, water, air, and fire.
The yellow eight-pointed stars in the design are associated with the symbol of the sun, representing light, life energy, and the natural order of the world.
Green elements within the pattern form cross-like shapes that symbolize the strength of the earth, growth, and renewal of nature.
The lower edge of the necklace is finished with a delicate openwork lattice.
Such lace-like beadwork edges were typical for festive bead collars and add a sense of movement and lightness to the piece.
Together, these symbols create an ornament that speaks about life, the sun, the earth, and the continuity of generations — central ideas in the traditional Ukrainian worldview.

Care Tips

Each Comely UA piece is handcrafted. Subtle variations in color or bead alignment are marks of authenticity - traces of time, touch, and soul.

Comely UA — each piece is memory illuminated.