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'Opihi are a prized delicacy in the Hawaiian islands, selling for up to $225 a gallon. They are often eaten at Hawaiian wedding receptions and baby's 1^st birthday lu'aus. Collecting enough opihi for these events can be a dangerous task. With a squat, dome-shaped shell, the 'opihi can deflect pounding waves powerful enough to sweep an unwary picker out to sea. Literally dozens of pickers are swept into the sea and killed every year, some never to be seen again leaving nothing but a parked truck near the shore, and maybe a sharp 'opihi knife and bag on a rock near the treacherous surf. Sure footing, a good grip and vigilance are essential when picking 'opihi as well as someone watching from above. All opihi shells, like a whale's tail or a fingerprint, are unique and no two are alike. This necklace comes with a polished 'opihi shell approximately 1" to 2" high centered on a Tiger puka shell necklace. The Tiger shells measure roughly 14mm to 15mm (approx. 1/2" to 3/5") in diameter.