Tiny Jewels from the Sea

Friday’s Favorites (a day late) is all about my favorite shells. Growing up in Southern California we visited the many miles and miles of sand, rocks and surf often. We also frequented the tides pools off of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Some of the earliest art and jewelry that I made was from shells.

The collection above are some of the tiniest shells that I have. Below I have added in the ruler with the millimeter edge up so you can see just how tiny they are.

Sized

When gathering the small shells I have no real favorites, just the size is what draws my attention. I do Love the colors and the variety of shapes.

abalone shells

button shells

I found all of the larger black abalone shells at the tide pools off the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  The smaller red shells were purchased in a bead store, and these are really tiny as you can see.

The button shells here were all found  on Catalina Island, which is the only place that I have found them except for the very center pinkish one, which I found in San Diego.

It is remarkable to think that these jewels make it safely to the shore intact!

sand dollars

sea urchins

abalone shells

cowrie and button shells

With these photos I have tried to give you an idea of the variety of sizes the shells come in.

Most of the larger shells pictured I have found except for the large abalone shell which I purchased on Catalina Island and the different variety of  sand dollars. I did find the four that are similar in the center of the line-up.

metal leaf full of shells

This display sits on my dining room table most of the year. I love the subtle colors, and the shapes of the treasures that reside in here.

sea urchin's in a bowl

The sea urchin’s here are for the most part purchased, but the green ones I found here in Southern California.

So what wonderous tiny jewels have you found beach combing? Perhaps you should take a walk along the shore today and enjoy! Christen