Shell Necklaces

On a recent trip to Brighton, I found two of the most beautiful shells in a little shop near the pier. Natural treasures can make unique jewelry, so I decided to mix them with another favorite of mine, crystals, and made them into necklaces.

The beauty of the larger shell was that it caught the light and shone like mother of pearl. The other light pink sea urchin shell was perfectly symmetrical in pattern and the color of it ranged from the faintest pastel pink to a lush deep pink.

Next time you’re at the beach, hunt for gorgeous shells and make yourself a one of a kind piece.

Materials
Unique large shells
Gold elastic cord
Gold seed beads
Blue & pink various sized crystals
Thread
Buttons
Glue

Instructions for the Large Mother of Pearl Shell Necklace

1. Appraise shell for jewelry making opportunities. This shell had three holes along the top left side – perfect for stringing with beads and attaching the cord.

2. To start, secure the thread to the button by tying a knot to a small bead. Thread needle through the button and up through the shell.

3. On the right side of the shell, string beads on the thread and then put the needle back through the hole and button. Bring the thread up again through the button and the shell. Add beads. Repeat.

4. Fill all three holes with gold beads, using a button at the back of each hole to secure.

5. Add crystals to the gold beads as desired by threading back through the holes.

6. Measure gold elastic cord around neck. Cut and tie off. Sew this to the back of the thread and buttons that are already in place.

Instructions for the Pink Shell Necklace

1. Glue a heart shaped crystal onto the center of the shell.

2. Either glue the cord to the back of the shell or if you’re lucky, with a shell such as this one, the shell underside will have protruding bits on which you may tie the gold elastic cord.

3. Each shell is different. Be creative with Mother Earth’s natural imperfections to make unique and wonderful pieces.

Extremely Crafty – Creating Happiness through Craft