Abalone shells have been used for jewelry for centuries but Chuck Snell didn't know that when in started making it at the age of ten (back in 1938).  As a young boy he collected abalone shells on the beaches of his birthplace, La Jolla, California.

When his father purchased a tile saw, Chuck started making abalone buttons with the tile tool. Soon buttons became earrings and belts and he's been creating abalone shell jewelry ever since then.
            A life long interest in diving and ethnology have joined in his jewelry. Both prehistoric and modern indigenous art have inspired his designs.
In the 1940's his work was influenced by the original people of S. California / Mexico region. In the 1950's his abalone shell and other jewelry was inspired by regalia traditions of the North West California tribes.
            With considerable help and encouragement from family through the years Chuck continues to create abalone shell jewelry by hand. He is still enjoying his craft after almost 70 years.
            “What could be more rewarding than matching beautiful shells and creating jewelry with them.”

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