The oldest beads on record are African shell beads and they are still great choice for spectacular beaded jewelry. In natural form or engraved, painted or laser cut, mother of pearl and shell pendant are beautiful on their own or in classic combination with coral beads or pearls. Coral beads have also been highly prized since ancient times. Check out the jewelry design potential.

Summer favorites, shell jewelry and mother of pearl pendants are beautiful all year round. Carved mother of pearl, abalone discs, engraved shell heart pendants and cowrie shells are a small sample of our ever-changing collection of shell beads.
In any hue, whether red, blue, black, or peach, coral is a distinctive choice. Coral and turquoise jewelry is a classic study in contrast. Beadworks is committed to ecologically sound sources for our coral beads. Read about our involvement with the Global Coral Reef Alliance.