It should work fine with the necklace, if not I'm sure your DM will allow it anyway.
Also, monk is only two levels long and it's a fine class. Two bonus feats, wis to ac, all good saves, evasion, an extra attack. Combo with Shiba Protector (wis to att & dmg) and Fist of the Forest (con to ac, unarmed dmg goes up two levels, rage-like ability) for a decent unarmed attacker.