The article explores the historical significance of quahog shells, traditionally cherished by Native Americans for making wampum beads, and their current use mainly as a food source. Jewelry designer Melanie Georgacopoulos discovered quahogs while developing her Katina collection, drawn first by their striking purple color and later appreciating their cultural heritage. Brendan Breen, a Boston entrepreneur with a background in aquaculture, sells quahog pearls and shell jewelry. His work aims to revive interest in these shells, linking their past value to modern artistry.
For centuries Native Americans treasured quahog shells, the purplish hard coverings of clams found along North Atlantic shores, which they fashioned into beads called wampum to adorn ceremonial garments.
Melanie Georgacopoulos, a jewelry designer known for her unconventional use of pearls and shells, fell in love with quahogs and their significant history and culture.
Brendan Breen, who has a lifelong fascination with quahogs, founded Mercenaria Pearl to sell quahog pearls and shell jewelry after studying aquaculture.
At first, I was drawn to its beautiful purple color, but after researching, I realized it has a significant history and carries a people's culture.
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