Thiufhati Mbedzi, a budding jewellery maker from Tshifudi Mapudzi outside Thohoyandou, has set a new fashion trend among locals with his unique necklaces. He dedicates his time to collecting different kinds of stones, which he uses to create the most extraordinary necklace designs.
Mbedzi (36) had matriculated 12 years ago and worked part-time jobs as a gardener and builder to support his family. About four years ago, he decided to change his course and try something different, and that was when he ventured into the jewellery-making business.
"I am firmly anchored in my Tshivenda African traditions. Our great forefathers made a living by making their own clay pots. This gave me the idea to start making necklaces. I aim to travel worldwide to showcase my talent," he said.
His necklaces are mostly made from natural materials he collects from the streets and the valleys, such as crystal stone, green jasper stone, red Jasper stone (the blood of Mother Earth) and many others, but he also uses recycled plastics. Not long after he perfected his necklace designs, he started carving drawings into pieces of rock as well to serve as home decorations.
To make his beautiful necklaces and ornaments, he uses different kinds of tools, such as pliers, a chisel, hammer and side cutter. "As for colouring, I use a powder I grind from plastics, tree leaves and colourful pieces of rocks, mixed with paper glue," he said.
Mbedzi believes that God had created everyone with their own special gifts that they can use to make ends meet. He hopes that his gift too can one day play a vital role in job creation and eradicating poverty.
For orders, Mbedzi can be contacted on 072 606 7298.