Multi-Stone Inlay Earrings FJE2730

ABALONE Abalone shell has been used by Native Americans since ancient times.  Early Zuni jewelry will feature abalone in delicate inlay work, and it is thought to be one of the first materials used in inlay work in the Southwestern USA. Each piece of abalone in jewelry is unique. Harvested off the coasts of Mexico and the USA, abalone can be used in unusual and organic shapes or cut into cabochons. Dress it up with facetted stones, or stay casual and chic in silver. A ‘feel good’ gift from the sea, abalone complements every collection.

SPINY OYSTER SHELL Spiny Oyster Shell is often inlaid or used as cabochons in Southwest style jewelry. The color combination of Spiny Oyster and turquoise is as old as the human love for adornment.  Coming all the way from the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Spiny Oyster Shell is most commonly seen in orange, red and purple. The more strident the color, the more expensive the shell is.  Red and purple shells are found at much greater depth than the brilliant oranges and are rare and more expensive.

MOTHER OF PEARL The iridescent nacre coating found inside shells like abalone, spiney oyster and others is what we call Mother of Pearl. Mother of Pearl has historically been used in mosaic and jewelry inlay work and set in jewelry as cabochons. Mother of Pearl is a soft, feminine complement to the bold colors of Southwest fashion.