Most people, even the folks who open quahogs, are unaware that these rare shells exist. In addition to beautiful colors and patterns, these shells also have to be free from defects. This is quahog shell. But not from just any ordinary quahog. The shells are from New England waters, harvested by ourselves and by local commercial fishermen.
Quahog shell with purple is found almost exclusively in estuaries between Long Island and Maine.
This jewelry is definitely unique to New England. So quahog with purple can be found elsewhere. But we don't use it. We use sterling silver, gold filled, and 14-karat gold. Some designs include gems such as amethyst, diamond, sapphire, and tanzanite.