Cowrie Shell Necklace

White Cowrie shells dipped in 24k gold on 18" 14k gold-filled chain.

Cowrie shells are usually smooth and shiny, with one rounded side, and one flat side. The round side of the shell is called the 'dorsal face', whereas the flat under side is called the 'ventral face' (commonly referred to as the side with "teeth", due to its smile/mouth-like appearance). These necklaces use the ventral face of the cowrie.