You can't miss it: the shell necklace is back, and not just at the beach. Tiny cowries strung on a cord, a gold seashell pendant, a Tahitian-style strand of white shells or ocean charms on a dainty chain: it instantly adds a vacation, boho touch to any outfit. Here's our guide to choosing, wearing and caring for your shell necklace.
Why is the shell necklace so on-trend?
A cult piece from the '80s and '90s, the shell necklace is making a big comeback, riding the vintage wave and the "beachy" vibe that's now part of fashion all year round. It has everything going for it:
- it instantly evokes summer, sunshine and vacation;
- it's worn by women and men alike;
- it goes with casual outfits as well as a light dress;
- it layers easily with other chains.
Our shell necklaces
Our new shell necklace collection is coming very soon. In the meantime, treat yourself to one of our mother-of-pearl necklaces — the iridescent material that lines the inside of seashells (see below) — or explore our full necklace collection.
The different types of shell necklaces
The cowrie necklace
The cowrie is a small oval shell, smooth and glossy, with a toothed slit on the underside. Once used as currency in several regions of Africa and Asia, it's also a symbol of prosperity and protection. The cowrie shell necklace, on a cord or a gold chain, is now one of the most sought-after styles, as a choker or a long necklace.
The Tahitian shell necklace
In Polynesia, shell necklaces carry real meaning: they're traditionally given as a sign of friendship and farewell when a visitor leaves. The Tahitian shell necklace is usually made of many small white or pearly shells, strung in tight rows.
Puka and heishi necklaces
The puka shell necklace, born in Hawaii, is made of small shell discs naturally pierced by the ocean. Heishi, for its part, refers to thin polished shell disc beads strung together. These are the quintessential surfer necklaces, very popular with men.
The seashell pendant
More delicate, the seashell pendant is worn on a dainty chain: a gold scallop shell, a small mother-of-pearl shell or a starfish. It's the chicest, easiest version to wear every day, especially as a gold shell necklace.
The shell and pearl necklace
Pairing shells with pearls is a natural fit: both come from the sea. The mix makes for luminous, romantic necklaces, perfect for summer or a beach wedding. Check out our pearl necklace guide.
Mother-of-pearl, the heart of the shell
Mother-of-pearl is the iridescent layer that lines the inside of certain shells; abalone offers a version with especially spectacular blue-green reflections. Cut into motifs, it makes for more refined jewelry than a raw shell, while keeping that connection to the sea. Our mother-of-pearl clover necklaces are a beautiful example:
To learn all about this lucky motif, read our clover necklace guide.
Real shell or metal shell?
- Real shells (cowrie, puka, mother-of-pearl) have a unique natural charm: every piece is different. They're light but more fragile, and don't like knocks or chemicals.
- Metal shells (gold-tone, gold-plated, silver or stainless steel) reproduce the shape of a shell in a more stylized way. They're more durable and easier to pair with other gold jewelry.
A gold-tone stainless steel shell necklace is a great option to wear all summer long, even by the water. More details on materials in our article sterling silver, gold-plated, solid gold: what's the difference?
Women's shell necklaces: how to wear them
- As a choker, with a tank top or a swimsuit, for a beach look. See our choker necklace guide;
- as a pendant on a dainty chain, with a linen shirt or a white dress;
- layered, with a gold chain and a pearl necklace, for a boho effect;
- as a long necklace, for longer styles with several shells, over a plain T-shirt.
To master layering, read our article how to layer jewelry like a pro.
Men's shell necklaces
The men's shell necklace is a summer classic: a surfer puka necklace, cowries on a black cord or a small seashell pendant on a steel chain. It's usually chosen as a choker or at 45-50 cm (18-20 in), worn alone for a natural look.
Our shop is mostly dedicated to women's jewelry for now, but our upcoming shell and cowrie necklaces will look just as good on men.
Complete the look: shell bracelets and earrings
For a beachy set, pair your necklace with a shell bracelet or anklet, or with matching earrings.
Caring for your shell necklace
- rinse it in fresh water after swimming in the ocean, then dry it gently;
- avoid contact with perfume, sunscreen and household cleaners, which dull mother-of-pearl and shells;
- don't leave it in direct sunlight for too long, as natural shells can fade;
- store it separately, in a pouch, to protect it from knocks.
Find all our tips in our guide to caring for your jewelry every day.
Frequently asked questions about shell necklaces
What does a shell necklace mean?
Depending on the culture, the shell symbolizes protection, prosperity (the cowrie) or friendship and farewell (in Polynesia). For many people, it's above all a reminder of vacations and the sea.
Can you swim with a shell necklace?
A stainless steel necklace can handle water. For natural shells and mother-of-pearl, it's best to take it off before swimming, or at least rinse it in fresh water afterward.
Is the shell necklace just for summer?
Not at all: in gold or as a pendant on a dainty chain, it can be worn all year round, over a fine-knit sweater or a shirt.
Craving a piece that feels like vacation? Browse our full necklace collection. Our necklaces are shipped from Aix-en-Provence, close to the Mediterranean, with free shipping to the USA.
