Entirely formed by hand: presented on a 16" sterling silver belcher necklace chain, this echinoid-shaped pendant was created using Art Clay Silver, a moldable clay which magically transforms into fine silver (.999 purity) when fired in a kiln. 
 
Echinoid fossils are the fossilised remains of sea urchins, spiny marine invertebrates that live on the seabed. Humans have been interested in these fossils for hundreds of years, and many consider them lucky. In both Celtic and Norse mythology, echinoids were venerated, associated with burials, woven into myths and legends, and used when making tools and decorative objects. These fossils are commonly known as thunderstones, fairy loaves, or shepherds' crowns.
 
They are found all over the world, and on Norfolk's fantastic Deep History coastline, they often turn up on beaches like West Runton, Happisburgh and Overstrand — coincidentally, also where mammoth fossils can be found (if you're lucky!). The last photo shows my favourite two echinoids which I found on Happisburgh beach some years ago. The little holes in rows radiating out from the top (periproct) indicate where the spines/spikes were attached.
 
Coastal and Botanical are two new ranges within the Minimalist+ collection, inspired by my fascination with nature. 
 
 
About Seadragon Silver
I was born in the Year of the Dragon according to the Chinese zodiac, and I love creating simple, sleek jewellery. I use a lot of seaglass, most of which we find along the beautiful beaches of the North Norfolk coast here in England, as well as beautiful semi-precious gemstones, surfite, Fordite and dichroic glass. 
 
I'm proud of every piece I make, and I hope you enjoy wearing my jewellery as much as I love making it.