I work with shells and sea glass mostly found on Maui and sometimes found on surrounding islands.
Shells are always found dead or unoccupied. Live shells are never taken.
Pearls are not found in Hawaiian waters anymore. I import my pearls using a local wholesaler. Black, Saltwater Tahitian pearls come from Tahiti. White, Pink and, in between, freshwater Edison pearls come from China and are all farmed. This is common practice and a positive for the ethics of pearls for jewelry.
Yellow and champagne pearls will be saltwater South sea pearls from Australia and surrounding.
I use Sterling Silver, 14k Gold fill, Solid 14k Gold and above golds upon request.
Hand-knotted pearl strands will almost always be Nylon rather than Silk. You may request Silk knotting instead.
I typically use Nylon because it’s stronger, longer lasting, and can get wet, though silk is what is traditionally used.
