Shiva Eye is an organic gem. It is the natural protective door of the shell of the turban snail, a mollusk that inhabits reef crevices and tidal pools in many parts of the world, notably the Indo-Pacific. When preyed upon, by rock crabs, otters and some species of starfish, the mollusk will withdraw into its shell and turn its
'eye' toward the attacker in the hope of warding it off. The eye resembles the powerful third eye of Lord Shiva which was opened to end illusion and save the world, according to Hindu mythology.
As Shiva Eye, or Shiva's Eye shell, as it is called in Asia, is found in many of the world's seas, it goes by a host of different names according to local lore and language:
Buddha Eye, Cat's Eye, Money of Mermaids, Sea Eye, and
Naxos Eye, to name a few. Whatever the name, there is a legend behind it that attests to the miracle power of this eye. Along with the variety of names, there is a diversity of size and color. Shiva Eyes found in Tahiti can be quite large, some 4 inches across; those from southern Thailand are noted more for their intense natural coloring.
When the turban snail nears the end of its natural life, the protective eye drops away to the sea bed, from where it can be collected by diving, usually to a depth of 60 feet or so. This sought-after treasure is characterized by a spiral; the shape and colors of the spiral being unique from shell to shell, but often in varying shades of red, orange, green and blue, depending on each particular sea snail's diet (they feed on algae of various colors). The structure and rarity of color are what count in deciding the quality of each eye. The background to the spiral is pearly white, as, just like a natural pearl, Shiva Eyes are made up of calcium.
The Shiva Eye is in fact the crystal mineral aragonite, a natural gemstone.
Due to its reputed healing and protective properties (the same crystal mineral is present in the soothing waters of spas and hot springs) Shiva Eye is best worn next to the skin, in a bracelet, in a ring, as earrings or a necklace; some even wear it as an amulet or carry it as a lucky stone or charm.
Being a natural gem, the Shiva Eye needs to be carefully polished to bring out its natural beauty, and then set appropriately to complement its individual qualities. A sterling silver setting is ideal since the cool of the silver provides a perfect accompaniment to the warm tropical hues of the Shiva Eye.
Author: Michael Briton
Picture Credit:
http://media.photobucket.com/image/shiva%20Eye%20shell/talingngam/8-16-200711-27-04AM_0010.jpg
