ABCGEMS New England WhiteLavender Wampum Shell Beads from Northeastern USA Americas First Currency from 16371673 Hand Polished for Maximum Luster Rich Striations Smooth Edges Heishi 12mm

Each order includes ONE 155inch strand of natural wampum shell heishi beads These are not readytowear but made for crafting necklaces bracelets or earrings Beads feature lightly rounded edges prevent chipping sharpness and 15mm holes perfect for stringing onto most cords wires or elastic for custom designs Photos may show multiple strands for visual reference only this listing includes one strand per order Before the first dollar was ever printed wampum shell beads were used as currency in North Americafrom 1637 to 1673 These lavender and white beads carry the same historical DNA as those used by Indigenous tribes and colonial settlers in trade treaties and diplomacy Not just ornaments they were symbols of value trust and communication Our beads are cut from authentic Atlantic quahog shells honoring the same legacy with every strand What makes these beads magical Their color a dreamy blend of lavender ivory and soft white that looks like a cloud passed through a sunset These tones arent dyed theyre formed deep within the shell over time Each strand reveals gentle striations and natural surface textures polished by hand to a subtle pearly glow Some beads are more purple some more creamy all are one of a kind It takes over 10 to 15 years for a quahog shell to grow rich in color and strength These beads come from wild Atlantic clams not factories or farms The result Subtle marbling oceanformed pinholes and a surface that feels alive Youre wearing a bead thats been aged by saltwater sand and time and it shows in the most beautiful way Were ABC GEMS USA a familyrun company with over 20 years in the trade From gem shows to artisan workshops our shell and stone beads are trusted by professional jewelers collectors and designers across the globe To explore our full line of natural materials just type ABCGEMS into the Amazon search bar