$382.50
In stock
Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A collection of ancient spondylus shell beads that have been made into 6 pairs of wearable earrings in modern times using a combination of sterling silver hooks and sterling silver posts. Four earrings with modern chain links and hooks, and two pairs with modern chain links, stud posts, and backings. These wearable and lovely accessories are truly spec-shell accessories that combine ancient and modern style! Spondylus, also known as thorny or spiny oysters, lived in the warmer coastal waters of Ecuador, and acquired by ancient Peruvian cultures through trade. These shells were often only available to the nobility and wealthy, serving as important adornments and status symbols. Size of studs including chain/shells: 1.75″ L x 0.5″ W (4.4 cm x 1.3 cm); shell bead: 1″ L x 0.2″ W (2.5 cm x 0.5 cm); disc earring including hook: 1.25″ L x 0.5″ W (3.2 cm x 1.3 cm); shell disc: 0.5″ W (1.3 cm); silver quality: 92%
The Spondylus shell is native to coastal waters of South America and was considered sacred by many cultures. Mesoamerican divers gathered the Spondylus from the depths of the Pacific Ocean as offerings to Pachamama, goddess of fertility. At the Inca site, Marcahuamachuco, about 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of spondylus shells and fragments were recovered at a shrine! The Spondylus carries numerous symbolic meanings; a symbol of fertility and elite social status, it was also believed to be an omen of rain, warning the indigenous people of El Nino. In fact, the Spondylus shell only appears when the water becomes warmer during December – the time of the El Nino Current – immediately before the rainy season.
Condition: Wearable condition! Shell beads are ancient and attached to modern chain links and sterling silver ear hooks and studs. Some nicks and chips to ancient shell beads. Studs include earring backings.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010
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