Summer of Freedom: Shell-Shocked

May 26

Cancun 1986

My mom has some radical shell jewelry from the 80s. I'm talking pastels, charms, excess—so good. Last summer, we were all hiding in our shells like hermit crabs, but this summer, it's time to whip out mom's loud vintage shells reuniting with friends and family, margarita in hand. Cowries, scallops, turbos, shells are everywhere. You just have to know where to look. Here are five of our new favorites.

**Purple Dragon**

This Shagreen & Tortoise cuff originated from founder Marie-Hélène Loubrielle wanting to set a star ruby cabochon stone onto an urchin she found while traveling. That idea spawned a covetable collection of luxurious shell jewelry showcasing natural beauties from under the sea.
Shagreen & Tortoise 22k gold vermeil, seashell, and garnet “Purple Dragon” cuff, $724 (originally $905) at Joey Wolffer
*This item is sold out.

**Embellished Shells**

Zia Couture is a brand and boutique out of Savannah, GA, created by Zia Sachedina. Growing up between Kenya and the US, Zia looks to different cultures to tell a story with his designs. These seashell danglers say statement and sparkle.
Austrian crystal and natural seashell earrings, $69 at Zia Couture

**Spotted Turbo**

Known for embracing trends just as much as reinventing classics, Connecticut’s Brinker & Eliza is a one-stop-shop for jewelry fun. A classic the mother/daughter design duo often rework into their collections are shells, like this spotted turbo necklace hanging from pearls.
Spotted turbo shell and glass pearls “Dottie” necklace, $188 at Brinker & Eliza

**New Moraimas**

Heimat Atlantica is best known for its European-made woven handbags. But designer Montserrat Álvarez's handbags pair well with her shell necklaces and earrings with a seaside aesthetic. These bead and shell clip earrings just beg to dance.
Flower-motif shell and Swarovski crystal “New Moraimas” earrings, $219.33 at Heimat Atlantica

**Nerita Shell**

You can’t talk about shell jewelry and not mention Dezso by Sara Beltran. The designer's love of the ocean and every creature within shines through her oceanic charms, ideal pieces for anyone with sea legs.
Dezso by Sara Beltran 18k rose gold, aquamarine, and Nerita shell pendant, $830 at Esqueleto
*This item is sold out.

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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