Silver Coast Seashells

made by Taija Mård

I have always admired shells and occasionally seen stunning jewels made of them. However, what I usually come across are mass-produced, machine-made, inauthentic ones I honestly don’t find too exciting… Then a while back I asked myself why not design them myself and with an innovative touch, too. So I did – and here’s the result!

My jewellery is guaranteed local and genuine. It's handmade by me here in the Aveiro District and I also handpick the shells for my pieces on these western shores, with adoration and respect for the Atlantic Ocean in general and the Silver Coast in particular.

Although seashells self-evidently are a renewable resource and each tide constantly washes ashore brand new ones by the billions, I always collect just a couple at a time. Plus since shell seekers only take empty ones, no risk of damaging ecosystem or endangering organisms is involved.

 

I enjoy this whole venture so much! What could be lovelier than to stroll the beach in peace, sensing the mighty powers and seeking delicate beauty? It’s also very rewarding to realise one’s creativity through this type of craft. And what's more, when working on or wearing these jewels I can stay in touch with the ocean all the time wherever I am.

The project starts by travelling from the city to the beach. There I search, sharp-eyed, for suitable shells. I especially like to pick rarities, something with particular appeal and tempting shape, size, colour or pattern.

First I varnish my thoroughly cleansed treasures in order to catch the sunlight, make colours pop and accomplish the same alluring glossy shine shells have when found fresh from the waterfront. In order to get a showy combo I rummage quaint shops and antiques markets, like Feira das Velharias, for extra embellishments that would accentuate the main shell. (I don't use any metal elements, so no worrying about scratches or nickel allergy.) Then all get tied to a pliable enough faux suede cord. Knots and bows are part of the charm of the ensemble – and they also make the pieces adjustable, so that one size fits all.

However, each of them is one-of-a-kind! All seashells are different and call for their own special arrangement. So what you get is a personal piece from your home shores, a unique present from this particular coastal zone or, if you're a visitor, a moving memento of your sunny stay on these beaches, to cherish and hold right next to your skin.

 

 

Because they are made of soft materials – strings with velvety nap and shells smoothed by sand and salty waves – they tenderly caress you. Against suntanned complexion these pieces look especially flattering. And naturally they match better than anything else with your precious pearl jewellery!

This all started out as a fascinating Portugal-inspired hobby and I’ve decided to also keep it that way. Consequently, this post is all about offering my positive experience to you as well, so if you'd like to acquire one of these jewels I kindly ask to contribute to the costs only.

Whichever you fancy, please handle with care and wear on clean, dry skin.
 

Here are all the categories, named descriptively:

Henna Tattoo

 

Jesus Sandals

 

 Hippie Women

 

 

Marine Medallion

 

 

Regal Rivière

 

 

 

Mermaid's String

 

 

Ocean Choker  

 
 

  

Power Pendant

 

 

 There are so many more pendants for you to discover here: SCS2

All-round Ribbon

Wrap these around you as forehead bands, belly button belts, anklets, bracelets, choker chains, arm cuffs... Truly your cord jewelry of choice!

 

 

Leave your enquiries and contact requests in the comments section below, please!

 

Pics by me and Esa Karjalainen. Click to enlarge! 

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In case you now got interested in shell hunting, here are some tips: Choose the right time, like low tide or after a storm, and make your appointment with the shore then. Check the information about collecting pertinent to each particular beach. Become familiar with what not to collect, in order not to break any laws. Leave all living sea creatures alone. Wear a pair of suitable gloves and also protective gear against the harsh sun. Remember your potable water but please take those plastic bottles with you after your expedition. Bring a bucket or other type of easy-carry container, maybe also a sieve to rinse shells with ocean water, and a towel for drying. I also carry a sachet where I can pick litter as I go! Another container with a lid is the safest way to carry your catch home. There you want to scrape away the debris from the shells, wash them well with brush and dish soap, then rinse and let dry. Some instruct soaking, bleaching, boiling... and then applying baby oil on them. Always make sure they are meticulously cleaned and without any sharp edges before handling.