Rain sticks for centuries have been used in ceremonial rituals by various groups from South America to bring rain to badly needed areas of the Atacama desert. The Rain stick was used by these groups to illustrate to thegods that rain was badly needed. Held by either end, and tilted slightly, small pebbles inside will trickle down through sharp thorns to create the sound of rain falling from the heavens.Rain sticks are made from wood skeletons of dead Quiso or Copado cactus plant. The cacti grow in the northern deserts of Chile, and have a short plant life of about seventy years. When the cacti die, artisans in Chili gather the deadwood called Normata and hand select branches suitable forRain sticks. Each Rain stick is unique and hand crafted to recreate the original look and sound of those used centuries ago. Today, theRain sticks have a variety of uses; from musical instruments to home decorating. Because of their variety of uses and uniqueness, Rain sticks make the perfect gift.Approximately 15 inches long. Woven yarn decoration may vary in color from rainstick shown.
