Spiny oyster beadsNecklace
There wasn't much for me to do with this gorgeous strand of giant beads other than string them. Please be aware that the necklace is quite heavy (11 ounces). When you hold it it may seem a bit stiff because the beads are so large they can't wiggle into sinuous shapes as smaller beads can. However, it forms a beautiful curve about the neck when worn.
When I bought these beads, I was aware that the spiny oyster shell long used in Native American jewelry comes from the Sea of Cortez. Indeed, I have purchased spiny beads from a vendor who collects the shells himself and makes exquisite small beads. So I assumed they must have come from Mexico though the beads puzzled me because rough Sea of Cortez shell I've purchased is finer grained and thinner. Also, the white and yellow colors are considered rare in the Sea of Cortez' Spondylus calcifer and this strand includes quite a few white and yellowish beads. Now I discover that at least one type of Spondylus is being cultured in Indonesia so realize these beads must be from something other than our own "giant pacific rock oyster" and I should have asked about their source!
The shell color forms only on the surface and the interior of the shell is white, so you will find this gradation of color in these beads. This strand represents the beautiful colors of the spiny oyster well ranging from palest yellow/white through orange-red to purple. These beads retain the natural texture of the shells but have been polished so do not feel rough against the skin. I'm sure you realize that there are three non-spiny beads in the necklace to give it a little added interest.
