Purple Spiny Oyster Butterfly Pendant and Brooch by Ray Adakai, Navajo

Ray Adakai, a Navajo silversmith, created this 2-inch x 2-inch butterfly pendant and brooch in purple spiny oyster with golden-yellow spiny oyster accents. Purple spiny oyster (Spondylus) shell is among the most prized and rare shell varieties used in Native American jewelry — its deep purple-to-lilac color is caused by variations in the Spondylus shell's outer layer and is significantly rarer than orange or red spiny oyster. The butterfly is widely used in Southwest Native design as a symbol of transformation and beauty. Available exclusively through Turquoise Mustang.