Opalized Seashell Necklace

About the piece:
This necklace  features a beautiful opalized seashell from Australia which was cut locally on Cape Cod by lapidary artist Bruce London. Australia's opal mining areas were once an inland sea. Many fossils are found in these ancient beds, including opalized sea shells. A shell gets buried in the sand. The organic matter decays, leaving a shell-shaped void in the sand. The void fills with sand-bearing water that solidifies over time to become precious opal. Since shells have a natural curvature, and since opal usually forms in thin layers, it is often the case that the lowest portions of the shell fossil have color, while higher portions are without color. As a result, full-color shells and shell fragments are rare. This is a really special opal! 

Details:
-Australian opalized seashell doublet (because this opal is curved naturally is has been given a solid backing allowing it to be bezel set) 
-Opal is set in 14k gold and backed in sterling silver 
-measures 3/4" wide by 1/2" tall
-Hangs on a 18" 14k gold chain

Shipping:
This necklace is ready to ship and will ship within 1-3 business days.

Customization:
If you would prefer a different chain length please contact me prior to ordering.