Tagua Beads & Slices

Tagua (also known as Tagua nut, corozo nut, ivory nut and vegetable ivory) is the fruit seed that comes from the Phytelephas Macrocarpa palm tree that grows in the tropical rainforests of South America.   Harvesting the Tagua nut does not harm the tree, thus no harm to the environment.   It is also providing an ethical and sustainable alternative to ivory obtained from elephants, whales, walrus and other species.   It also provides an economic alternative for Rainforest conservation and a source of income for many families in South America.

All of the Tagua beads and slices on Turtle Neck Jewelry have been purchased from organizations that are working directly with the artisans and paying them fair wages above the typical “going rate”.  All pieces are hand produced by the artisans, and as such – every piece is unique.  (Unlike mass produced machine piece which can take away the work of 20 to 50 artists)