Sacred Tibetan Chank Shell Beads 30 Inch
Description
The chank shell, also called the Indian Conch is a large gastropod shell found along the coast of India and Pakistan. This shell is sometimes referred to as Sacred Chank because of its importance in both the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The use of chank shell dates back 4000 years. The entire shell can be adorned with silver Repoussée work and used as an altar piece. Other uses for chank shell are beads. These beads can be carved, cut into disk shapes, or long oblong shapes. Chank shell is also used in prayer beads and prayer wheels in Tibet.
Situated atop a Himalayan plateau at 16,000 feet, Tibet, often overshadowed by its larger neighbors India and China, has a rich cultural heritage and a global reputation for remarkable jewelry. Historically, artisans in Tibet combined imported materials like red coral, pearls, and conch shells with native green turquoise, agates, and precious metals to create intricately worked jewelry for both decorative and religious purposes. Commissioned by wealthy patrons, Tibetan silversmiths crafted pieces with great detail, receiving accommodations and sustenance during the creative process. Today, while some traditional handmade methods have shifted to semi-automated processes, and modern materials like plastics coexist with traditional ones, Tibet continues to produce breathtaking jewelry. The commitment to Free Tibet is evident in the sourcing of these exquisite pieces from a Tibetan family in the U.S., employing family members, and supporting over 90 Tibetan refugees in Nepal. The woman-owned company, emphasizing social responsibility, offers a range of products, from beads to jewelry, reflecting Tibetan artistry and contributing to the livelihoods of people across multiple countries.
This strand is not intended to be a ready-to-wear necklace. Although the strand can be worn "as is," the string holding it together is not durable and may break with use. For this reason, we recommend that you restring the beads before wearing them.
Strand Length
30 inches (including string/raffia)
Bead Size
14-19 mm diameter. See picture with ruler for size comparison.
146687
Approximate Age: Contemporary
People: Tibetan
Country of Origin: Tibet, Nepal