War has a devastating impact on people’s lives, communities, and environment. The remnants of war, such as bombshells and bullet shells, are all too often a haunting reminder of the destruction and violence that occurred. However, one association in Cambodia has transformed bombshells into beautiful and powerful jewelry that represents hope, peace, and transformation.
Rajana Association of Cambodia is a local association run by a team of dedicated Cambodian staff. They employ six artisans who work full-time making pendants, rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces from recycled bombshells and bullet shells. Their flagship store, located away from the hustle and bustle of the busy Russian Market area of Phnom Penh, has a rustic feel that adds to the charm and uniqueness of their products.
Originally set up by a UK charity after Cambodia gained peace in the 1990s, Rajana is now an independent association. They transform old bombshells and bullet shells into beautiful jewelry that represents the peace they have discovered since the fall of the Khmer Rouge. The association’s statement is perfectly illustrated in the popular peace dove designs that Ten Thousand Village is currently selling.
It is hard to believe that such beauty can be derived from a horrifying and all too abundant marker of war. Rajana’s jewelry not only looks stunning, but it also carries a powerful message of transformation and hope. It is a reminder that we can find beauty and hope in even the most devastating situations. Rajana Association of Cambodia is defying the paradox by creating iconic jewelry from recycled brass bombshells and sharing their message with the world.
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