The Story 🌸💀
Part of the Red Thread Fish Scale Collection, these earrings translate an unfortunate roadside tragedy into a high-fashion, high-concept tribute to local Florida wildlife. Inspired by European metalsmithing structural design and post-Brazil creative expansion, this pair transforms osteological form into wearable art.
The focal elements are the posterior cornua from the hyoid apparatus of a softshell turtle, ethically salvaged from local Southwest Florida roads. The elegant, sweeping curves of these throat bones are adorned at their bases with translucent fish scale blooms—cured in the studio since 2023—size 6/0 crimson glass seed beads, and subtle red thread accents that honor the living spirit of the creature.
The Composition
The Focal Specimen: Ethically salvaged Florida softshell turtle hyoid apparatus (posterior cornua). Cleaned, degreased, and whitened using eco-conscious studio practices.
Accents & Beadwork: 3-year cured translucent fish scale clusters, size 6/0 red glass seed beads, and crimson thread detail.
Hardware & Findings: 15mm nickel-free gold-plated jump rings attached to 22x11mm 18k gold-plated brass French ear wires.
Dimensions:Â 4" total drop length.
Wear & Style
These long, sculptural drop earrings offer dramatic visual length with an airy, lightweight feel. The ivory curves of the turtle hyoid frame the neck, while the light-catching fish scales and crimson accents create a striking contrast against bare skin or dark hair.
The Investment
Curation Price:Â $24
The Legacy: Handcrafted, ethically prepped, and assembled in North Port, Florida by artist Michele Moore for Bone Boutique.
Origin:Â Local Southwest Florida roadside salvage & ethically cured Florida fish scales.
