Torevia Crespin Santo Domingo Rainfall Necklace and Earring Set

This lovely statement necklace and earring set handcrafted by Santo Domingo husband and wife duo, Delbert and Torevia Crespin. A fine example of the artists skill and technique. Two layers of graduated heishi single strands give this impression of rain falling. With a matching pair of single strand earrings. Made from a combination of coral, turquoise, jet, melon and white shell which creates a unique and dramatic silhouette. In Santo Domingo Pueblo, bead-making has been a central part of life for centuries. These beads are known as “heishi,” which means “shell” in the Santo Domingo language, Keres. Most heishi beads are rolled into smooth flat discs, but heishi can refer to any small beads that have been made by hand.</p> The process is extremely labor intensive, and it can take up to two weeks to make a single strand of heishi beads. First, the shell or gemstone is sliced into strips, then clipped by hand into small squares. These unfinished beads are drilled and strung on a fine wire. Next, the artist turns the string of beads against a stone wheel to make them round, further shaping and smoothing with sandpaper. Finally, the beads are run against a leather belt to achieve a fine polish. The pair are known for their one of a kind multi-gemstone works of art. A set that will be cherished for generations to come.