Our mother of pearl Palestine map pendant is handmade by mother of pearl artisans in Jerusalem, Palestine.
Mother of pearl craft is a centuries old craft, believed to have been introduced to Palestinians by Franciscan monks who came from Damascus to Bethlehem around the 15th century. Since the 17th century Bethlehem witnessed a major development in the manufacture of mother of pearl, encouraged by tourists and pilgrims who would buy souvenirs and gifts from their travels. Until today, the traditional craft continues to be passed on from one generation to the next.
