Shell Jewelry

The Art of Shell Jewelry in Iran: The Persian Gulf's Sparkle on Necklaces and Ears

The art of creating shell jewelry in Iran is rooted in the country's ancient maritime history and its close connection to the sea. The southern coasts of Iran, with their rich reserves of diverse shells, have always inspired artists to create beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry.

History of Shell Jewelry in Iran

The use of shells in jewelry making dates back thousands of years. In ancient Iranian civilizations, shells were revered as symbols of beauty, wealth, and a connection to the afterlife. Ancient Iranian women wore shell necklaces, bracelets, and earrings as a sign of their social status.

Raw Materials and Tools Required

The most important raw material in shell jewelry making is various types of seashells. Shells such as pearl oysters, mother-of-pearl, conch shells, and more are used in this art. In addition to shells, other materials such as:

Wire and metal: For connecting shell pieces and creating the base of the jewelry

Pearls: For further embellishment of jewelry

Gemstones: To create variety in designs

Glue and resin: For bonding pieces and creating strength

Hand tools: Such as scissors, pliers, drills, etc.

are used.

Steps in Making Shell Jewelry

Making shell jewelry involves the following steps:

Selecting shells: Selecting high-quality shells with beautiful designs

Cleaning and preparation: Cleaning the shells and preparing them for cutting and carving

Cutting and carving: Cutting and carving the shells into desired shapes

Drilling holes: Drilling holes in the shells for attachment to wire and metal

Assembly: Connecting the shell pieces together and creating the desired jewelry

Polishing and finishing: Polishing and finishing the jewelry to create a shine

Types of Shell Jewelry

Shell jewelry comes in a wide variety and includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, brooches, and more. Additionally, the designs of these jewels are very diverse and range from simple and classic to modern and fantasy designs.