The combination of turquoise and spiny oyster shell is one that has been heartily embraced by indigenous artists of the southwest. So much so that in recent years it has generated the use of composite stones made with a combination of copper matrix turquoise and spiny oyster shell. These composite stones are comprised of a mix of Turquoise, spiny oyster shell and copper/metals to create a mosaic stone that gives all the feels of the Southwest with shades of turquoise, white, pink, oranges and more.
This necklace features a large cabachon of this composite stone, which has been hand beaded with glass seed beads and 14 ct. gold seed beads, backed by a soft piece of deerskin leather. The cab hangs from a gold bail strung onto a necklace of spiny oyster shell nuggets and discs interspersed with turquoise nuggets. It closes with a simple gold lobster clasp.
The necklace measures 24 inches without the pendant. The beaded cab pendant measures 2 inches by 1 1/2 inches.
THE STONE MEDICINE:
Copper Turquoise is considered as a stone of communication. It brings the undiscovered abilities of art in light that are still not visible. With the healing properties of copper, the copper turquoise offers understanding and motivates the wearer’s enthusiasm. It also attracts the success and prosperity by continuously inspiring the new projects.
Shells are commonly referred to as symbolizing boundless growth as the shells are continually growing throughout the mollusks life. Used since the Stone Ages as jewelry, decoration and as holders during religious ceremonies to invoke the sacred, wearing Shell Jewelry has also been used to improve fertility. Shell stimulates intuition, sensitivity, imagination and adaptability. It helps to enhance mental clarity and provides insight into decision-making. Shell promotes cooperation between the self and others, as well as within the self. It provides cohesive energy for groups. This organic shell-life-matrix of the sea carries the energies of life, water, comfort and peace of mind. It is protective of it’s host or wearer, a safe haven and home that resonates security from the tides constant changing. A greater sense of understanding, patience and knowing opens, reflected from the rhythms of the sea that this shell has endured. In healing folklore it encourages security, adaptability and joy.