Description In Ukrainian Folklore Poppy (Mak) is a flower of dreams, fertility, beauty and youth. It symbolizes infinity of the universe but at the same time it suggests sleep and the oblivion. Believed to be a good charm against witches, it’s alleged to be protective against the evil eye and possess a magic power to be helpful against all sorts of evil forces and evil influences. This style of necklace was called a Gerdan and they were the most widespread in Galicia, Bukovina and Zakarpathya. It is believed that sylyanka (other name for gerdans) came from Hungary and Romania. Beaded necklaces are one of the oldest forms of women’s ornaments in Ukraine, and have many names (monysto, busy, korali) testifying to their long history and important role in Ukrainian culture. Not only adornments. They carried deep symbolic significance. One would never leave home without covering their neck with some kind of ornament (as it was akin to going out naked!). Be it a festive day, a celebration, a Sunday or a normal working day, a lady’s neck was always adorned with rows of elaborate beads. These beaded necklaces were also amulets, protecting one from evil spirits & bad people. Imported from Ukraine
