This double-strand necklace is made with mindfully souced, natural materials. Inspired by traditional Pueblo art, each bead and Abalone chip is set in careful numerical patterns and orders. White Heishi, from the Santo Domingo word meaning "shell", are used connecting both strands to the hemp wrapping around the neck. These miniscule beads were originally made by slicing the material into strips, then cutting it into small squares, after which holes are drilled through the centers with cactus spears and sand to act as an abrasive. 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.
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".
Mother of Pearl refers to the nacre that coats the inside layer of the mollusk shell which is used to form pearls. Nacre substance takes up a whole shell's interior, offering a larger working surface for carving. It is believed that Mother of Pearl offers soothing, motherly love and protection from negative energies. For this reason, it is a recommended healing gemstone for children. The shell is widely believed to attract prosperity and is often used in mystical work and lore to heighten intuition, psychic sensitivity and imagination.
Made to Order - This piece features traditional cord wrapping made with hemp. No clasp. Necklace measures 14 inches top to bottom. 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:
River shell, Abalone shell, White clam heishi beads, Mother of Pearl, Metal beads, Hemp thread
River Shell - White Heishi - Mother of Pearl 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.