Long Dentalium Shell Necklace

This necklace is an Indigenous statement of wealth and status. The dentalium shell was traded across North American from the Arctic to the Plains. They were a form of currency to Indigenous peoples. The shells generally originated from the West Coast and were traded inland. 

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This pendant is made with Muskox horn that I hand sanded to a high polish. 

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I searched for these vintage European beads because of the beauty of their colour and shape. 

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This necklace is 31.75 inches long with a sterling silver clasp.