Ocean’s Soft Gold – Hawksbill Shells

The hawksbill sea turtle is an endangered species of turtle that lives in tropical and sub-tropical oceans. The shell, or back, of a turtle is often referred to as “thirteen scales” because of the thirteen scutes, or scales/plates, on the shell.  The dappled cream and brown scutes are considered by many to be the most beautiful of the sea turtle species. Tortoiseshell, as it’s commonly called, in regards to jewelry, specifically products made from the shell, belongs in the category of organic gemstones.

A Treasure of the Sea

Tortoiseshells are mostly a translucent mottled cream-brown, with a smooth texture. There are a few green tortoiseshells, which are extremely rare. Tortoiseshell’s black-brown markings are made up of numerous spots. The denser the spots and the darker the color, the clearer and more beautiful the texture. Coupled with its unique brilliance and charm, tortoiseshell offers a sense of elegance and nobility, making it a rare marine treasure.

Auspicious Symbol

In Eastern culture, tortoiseshell is a symbol of health and longevity, exorcising evil spirits, and good fortune, and had won the favor of rich and powerful dynasties, businessmen and the wealthy, as well as the general public. According to legend, the tortoise can live for thousands of years and is considered an auspicious brave mythical beast with “eagle mouth, snake head, turtle back and unicorn tail”, saving people at sea who are in danger. Therefore, it is believed that the tortoise is a spiritual auspicious beast, and the ornaments and handicrafts made from its shell can bring good luck.

Medicinal Value

There is an old saying: “It is better to wear ‘thirteen scales’ than to wear gold and silver.” People love tortoiseshell jewelry not only because of its beautiful and rare gemstone properties and it power to exorcise evil spirits, but also because of its health benefits.

Tortoiseshell can be used as medicine, with special effects of clearing away heat, detoxification, calming panic, and eliminating rheumatism. Wearing it can protect the body from dampness, drafts and frost, and from the cold; it can also regulate blood pressure, clear the meridians, calm the heart and qi and the metabolic circulation of the human body.

Today, the turtle, as an endangered protected animal, cannot be used for making medicinal materials or handicrafts. This makes the few tortoiseshell products handed down from ancient times even more precious, and also reminds people to love and cherish turtles while appreciating the beauty of tortoiseshell jewelry.