This necklace is comprised of multiple semiprecious elements. Abalone spikes are strung together with 25 goldstone spacer beads and White Heishi chips on Sinew threading. Components are carefully beaded in sacred numerical patterns and groupings of 3 and 9. Metal beads secure strands near the silver-plated toggle clasp.
Abalone is very important regarding its historical use and spiritual significance. Its rough exterior only serves to make its iridescent interior even more attractive in contrast. Beyond surface beauty, Abalone is simultaneously a living creature and a life-giving force, in more ways than one. For generations, among Indigenous tribes of the Pacific coast, its shell has been harvested and made into other products or traded while its flesh was collected as a reliable source of food.
Native practices give the Abalone new life after its death, by integrating the shell into religeous ceremonies, the chimes of the shell on a dancer’s clothing would make the Abalone "sing".
Heishi ("hee shee"), from the Santo Domingo word meaning "shell", are small disc- shaped beads made of organic shell or stone. These miniscule beads were originally made by slicing the material into strips, then cutting it into small squares. After which holes are drilled through the centers with cactus spears and sand. Strung together, the rough squares are shaped and smoothed by holding the string against a turning stone wheel. In the process, 60 – 70% of the original material is lost.
Sinew is a fibrous band of tissue also known as tendon. Tendons connect muscles to bones in animals. These fibers have been used by many pre-industrial societies because it is strong and durable. Real animal sinew has unique properties which make it an excellent material for sewing and binding.
Made to Order - Necklace measures 27.5 inches from end to end. If you would like a different length, please request in the text field below at no additional cost (unless major changes to the original design are needed).
Elements:
Abalone shell, White heishi, Goldstone, Metal beads, Ceramic beads, Silver-plated toggle clasp, Sinew
Abalone - White Heishi - Goldstone Necklace
To ensure your jewelry's longevity and beauty, always take off before bed and place on a soft surface to protect any natural gemstones. DO NOT WEAR YOUR JEWELRY IN THE WATER, including chlorinated pools, hot tubs, and baths with added soaps or essential oils. If your jewelry gets wet, simply pat dry with a microfiber cloth or towel. Excessive moisture can seep into pourous surfaces and may gradually weaken, dissolve, or cause cracks to appear in the stone.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure while wearing your natural gemstone pieces. UV rays may damage or discolor gemstones over time, especially darker colored materials. If you display your jewelry when not in use, be sure to keep out of direct sunlight, indirect light is fine.