3 to 10 MM Graduated Violet Shell Heishi Bead 16" Strand.

Wholesalers and Indian Jewelry crafters, this one is for you. These strands feature breathtaking beads of genuine Penn Shell. These Heishi beads were hand drilled and are ready for stringing which makes them perfect for anyone who wants to create their own jewelry. They are 3 to 10 MM thin and are graduated from a 4 mm diameter to 10 mm. Each bead of this gorgeous Shell delivers a contrasting display of natural earth tone hues giving these beads a vibrant character. And, you can order as many Heishi shell bead strands as you want. Just let us how many you need. These graduated Violet Shell bead strands are each over 16" long.

The literal meaning of Heishi is "shell" and specifically refers to pieces of shell which have been drilled and ground into beads and then strung into necklaces. More and more frequently, however, heishi (hee-shee) has come to refer to hand-made tiny beads made of any natural material. The origin of heishi is fascinating indeed, and is inescapably linked to the ancient history of the people most proficient in its making, the Santa Domingo Pueblo Indians. It is safe to say that this is the oldest form of jewelry in New Mexico (and perhaps in North American), pre-dating the introduction of metals. Centuries ago, the shells used by the Pueblo Indian to make beads were obtained in trade from the Gulf of California. It will take from 2 days to a week to prepare a single strand of heishi. A string of good heishi will have a uniform consistency. If you gently pull it through your hand, it should feel like a single serpent-like piece. (Note: Precisely because of the handwork involved, a fine string of heishi may contain a lightly flawed or chipped individual bead.) This information is from the Indian Arts & Crafts Association and the Wingspread Communications publishers of the Collector's Guides to Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos.