LIGHATÚTTÚR - DRYFIT SHIRT - RED/YELLOW/GREEN

The necklace bead work is called #LIGHATÚTTÚR, the other kind is called AMOSCH. The cultural value of a LIGHATÚTTÚR is so treasured by the Refaluwasch that its monetary value is insignificant. The Refaluwasch wear beads on special occasions like big fiesta celebration or challenging competitions. It is especially worn by traditional leaders when presiding over a special meeting and also used to adorn our dead. When seeking assistance from a local medicine man (healer), it is valued as a gift.

For a Refaluwasch to own one of these sentimental ornaments gives one a sense of abundant value of the tradition he or she is part of. It represent the very essence of our well being reminding us of who we are and where we came from. To give another Refaluwasch one as a gift is overwhelming for the receiver, to give one non-Refaluwasch is a sign of acceptance into the Refaluwasch culture. Sadly, the art of traditional bead work and its significant value is being pressured by modern times that its value is slowly changing into monetary value by the new generation. Selling Lighatúttúr, Ghill, or Amosch for survival is slowly accepted in the Refaluwasch community, however, it is an insult to a weaver for someone to put price tag on her work. To a traditional weaver, to sell one (not use as a gift anymore) is selling oneself. The price one puts on it, is the price of ones worth.

Narrated by : Gordon Marciano