18th – 19th century, Nagaland, India
These were cut from the center of South Indian Ocean chank shells (Turbinella pyrum), which are very similar to conch shells, just another closely related species. That shell
cutting industry in South India has not been active for more than one hundred and fifty years. In some cases, the shells were actually drilled and made into wearable beads by Angami Nagas, who would have traded for them via Assam, India. Each is different but all come from the same species of mollusk.
The sterling chains and very comfortable clip tops are hand made in our Santa Fe studio.
One of a kind
Shells: 1 3/8″ long; just under .5″ diameter