Handcrafted Ostrich Eggshell Heishi Necklace - 217.6

Handcrafted Ostrich Eggshell Heishi Necklace

​A piece of wearable history, this necklace is crafted from one of the oldest jewelry-making materials known to humanity. These delicate, creamy-white discs—traditionally known as Heishi beads—are painstakingly hand-cut, drilled, and smoothed from the thick shells of ostrich eggs. This specific style is a hallmark of the San people of Southern Africa, representing a craft that has remained virtually unchanged for tens of thousands of years.

​Artistry & Craftsmanship

• ​Ancient Technique: Each bead is individually shaped by hand. The shell is broken into small fragments, drilled with a central hole, and then strung together and ground against a flat stone to create a uniform, cylindrical strand.
• ​Minimalist Palette: The natural, unbleached ivory hue of the shell provides a soft, matte finish that feels both primitive and ultra-modern.
• ​Organic Construction: The beads are traditionally strung on natural fiber or sinew, finished with a rustic hand-tied raffia or cord closure, highlighting the raw, earth-derived beauty of the piece.

Size: H 36cm W 8cm D 8cm