About Carole

I create one-of-a-kind handcrafted Wampum pendants, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets from quahog shells that are found on the beaches of Cape Cod and New England. Each shell is carved using a rotary tool with a diamond bit. The back of the shell is ground down to see how much of the natural purple color comes through the shell and then is cut into the rough design. I fine tune the shape and design by sanding with finer detailed bits. Once complete, the pieces are put into a rock tumbler for 3-4 weeks which smooths the edges and polishes the shell. Each piece is unique because no two shells have the same markings on them.

 

I also create jewelry from Sea Glass found on Cape Cod and from recycled glass. The sea glass is paired with charms to create necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Resin is used to create unique beach scenes, tree of life hearts and sparkling half spinning moon pendants.

 

Wampum

The term "wampum" is a shortening of the earlier word "wampumpeag", which is derived from the Massachusetts or Narragansett word meaning "white strings [of shell beads]"Wampum was originally used as money by Native Americans. It was used to mark exchanges for engagement, marriage, and betrothal agreements, as well as for ceremony and condolence ceremonies. Wampum was legal tender in New England from 1637-1661.

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