Hippo's Tooth Necklace

For hundreds of years, the shells of Arca Clams have been carved to mimic hippo teeth, and worn as symbols of power and virility in West Africa. This necklace features one of these special, rare beads from Nigeria. The erosion around the hole is a testament to the hundreds of years it was worn as a belt or pendant in Africa.

The "hippo's tooth" hangs on an oxidized sterling silver chain that is incorporated with an Indian brass trade bead. The chain measures 28 inches, and the pendant hangs about 1.75" below the chain. All Necklaces in the TASI Men's Collection have durable lobster style clasps.

This piece is handmade in our Portland, OR studio. A slight natural variation in size, color, and shape may occur in the hippo's tooth shell bead.

This is a limited edition design.