Aunty Jeanette James is a Palawa artist and jeweller whose work is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage. She is part of a small group of women who practice the traditional art of shell stringing, a skill which has been passed down matrilineally for generations.
Aunty Jeanette uses both traditional stringing patterns and her own contemporary designs, which often incorporate other shells such as black crow and white penguin, to conserve the harder-to-find iridescent mariner shells.
In addition to shell jewellery, Aunty Jeanette creates contemporary pieces with striking traditional elements such as echidna quills and eagle claws. These are collected sustainably under license.
Aunty Jeanette's work is beautiful and carries significant cultural value. As one of only a few practising traditional jewellery makers, her work is a testament to Palawa cultural traditions and the importance of passing knowledge through to future generations
The Australian Museum Shop is proud to carry these beautiful pieces. Click through to browse the range.
