🪡 A Tradition Woven Through Time: Luisa David on the Ancestral Art of the Okama
By OLTEM
“Hola, my name is Luisa David. I’m from the Embera Beyabida ethnic cultural community of Colombia, and I’ve been working in collaboration with OLTEM for about four years.”
Though many now recognize the Okama as a colorful, intricately beaded necklace, Luisa reminds us that its origins stretch back hundreds of years, far beyond modern fashion. The Okama is a living piece of ancestral heritage.
“The Okamas are part of a long-standing tradition. While today they’re known for their vibrant beads, their history began with metal, seeds, and sea shells. At first, they weren’t as colorful, but they always held deep meaning.”
Over the centuries, the Okama evolved—not just in material but in symbolism. It has always been more than an accessory. It’s a marker of identity, resistance, and beauty in Embera culture.
Why We Share These Stories
At OLTEM, each piece is handmade, but also heart-made—with every thread woven by artisans like Luisa who are passing down traditions through their craft. We don’t just sell jewelry—we tell stories of women, culture, and connection.
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