Malaclemys terrapin - Diamondback Terrapin
The diamondback terrapin is a beautifully ornate local species of marsh turtle that inhabits most of the east coast wetlands from Cape Cod, down through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico and Texas. It is the only US turtle that lives in brackish waters.
In the 1900s the diamondback terrapin was almost hunted to extinction and has had a tough time since then in recovering its numbers. Crab traps and other net fishing practices are said to be responsible for up to 15,000 deaths per year, according to NJ's Wetlands Institute. Habitat loss from coastal construction and sea level rise has removed marshland for bulkheads, seawalls, and community development - eliminating their nesting grounds. The diamondback terrapin is now considered a species of concern in many states and was listed on the ICUN vulnerable status list due to continued population decline.
This necklace is made from the molding and casting of a real found shed scute in recycled silver. Turtle scutes are the scales that make up a turtles shell, which sheds much like our own skin as they grow. The original scute was found by my friends at Sedge Island Education and Research Center in New Jersey. The charm is 1.25" long and 1.5" wide including the bail. It is strung on an 18”, or 20” sterling silver cable chain of your choice.
This design is currently available in solid polished or oxidized sterling silver but other metals and finishes are always available, message me for custom options and a quote.
All HKM Jewelry pieces are properly hallmarked for metal type and stamped for authenticity.