Spiny Oyster Shell and Sterling Pendant

Fun spiny oyster and sterling pendant. Another great find at the Tucson Gem Show.

Spiny Oyster (Spondylus Princeps)
This shell is found in only one area along the Baja coast, California. The shell comes in three colors Red, Orange & Purple. After 90ft of water the reds and oranges appear. Purple is found in water from 0-60 ft.
The shell of this oyster has been found in archeological excavations of the Anasazi and other native peoples of the desert southwest. Spiny oyster shells have been found in the same excavations in which turquoise was also found, showing that ancient people appreciated the same beautiful combination of colors and materials we enjoy today. These finds not only demonstrate early people's interest in jewelry, it also shows the existence of long-distance trading. Spiritfeather.com