Tortoiseshell

Tortoiseshell or tortoise shell is derived from the shell of the hawksbill turtle which has become an endangered species due its use. Used for items such as sunglasses, combs, knitting needles and guitar picks, its use was banned in 1973.

During the Victorian era, pique-worked jewellery made from tortoise shell inlaid with tiny gold or silver pin points forming pictures or patterns was highly prized.