Shell Operculum Wire Wrap

Hand-wrapped with 24-36in. of .999 fine silver wire by Jim Rice. This unique piece is made from the trap door of a sea snail, polished to clearly show the remarkable natural spiral against the white background of this material. The operculum served as a defense mechanism for the snail that formed it. When threatened, the snail would close the opening of its shell with this trap door, blocking its body from predators while the bumpy surface of the operculum's exterior would prevent creatures such as starfish from being able to maintain a suction hold on the shell. 44mm x 31mm.

Need to add a chain? Click here to view our selection of chains: Chains – Turtle Old Man

Our shell operculum earrings provide an excellent complement to this piece: Shell Operculum Earrings – Turtle Old Man