Aliger gigas - Queen Conch
The Queen Conch is a large deep sea mollusk that can grow up to 5lbs, 12" long and can live for 30 years. A gentle giant, they are benthic grazing herbivores that can be found throughout the Caribbean, within the Gulf of Mexico and Bermuda. These hearty creatures have been part of the wild fishing industry for centuries, fishing and habitat loss has caused a rapid decline in their numbers. This year, NOAA has finally listed the queen conch as threatened under the Endangered Species Act since February 14th, 2024. Check out this article about the Queen Conch Hatchery Project - which is a marine hatchery and research facility aiding in the repopulation of this iconic species.
The Queen Conch Necklace is made from the molding and casting of a real found juvenile queen conch shell in recycled silver. My friend gave me this shell that she collected in Dania Beach, Florida, to be molded and cast in solid silver. Once the casting created, I solder on jump rings and it is then strung on a 16”, 18”, or 20” sterling silver cable chain of your choice.
The charm is 1.25" long and 1/2" wide including bail. This design is currently available in solid polished or oxidized sterling silver but other metals and finishes are always possible, message me for custom options and a quote.
All HKM Jewelry pieces are properly hallmarked for metal type and stamped for authenticity.
Please allow 2-3 weeks for orders to ship, if you need anything sooner please email me ahead of time for rush order options.