19th century and before, mostly Africa
These shells, mostly from Mauritania, were used as amulets, adornments and money of course. They were traded and collected, saved for dowries. The carved shells, little sculptures, are specific to Mauritania. They were worn in the hair to attract the other sex. Each has the patina of time and human wear, the touch we seek. We made the sterling links and wraps and the chain of course is sterling too. It can take a year or so for Jewels to find just the right shells, those that have the glow and patina in order to make this design. So this is the only one available for now.
A Jewels Standard Design; no two alike.
Longest shell (which happens to be Naga, NE India): 1 3/8 x 1/4″
Necklace length: 17 1/8″