Glazed Ceramic Necklace | Whale Tail

| Glazed Ceramic Necklace | Whale Tail On Taiwan's east coast, spring marks the season when whales migrate north with the Kuroshio Current. To witness these magnificent, almost magical beings, the largest animals on Earth, is a rare and fortunate experience on this small island. Back in February, a mother and calf humpback whale passed by Orchid Island. The aunties gathered at the general store, drinking Baolida, were excitedly boasting about the size of the whales they'd seen. On Orchid Island, if you haven't seen a whale, you'll be teased until you do. Though I maintained a cool exterior as an island newcomer, the moment the last coin dropped onto the counter after paying, I rushed to the sea where the whales had been spotted. By the time I arrived, I caught just the fleeting moment of a whale diving, its tail suspended above the water before vanishing. The onlookers had dispersed, but I lingered, the sea still calm. I never saw them again after that. | About This Piece | The people of Orchid Island have their own lunar calendar and seasonal rituals. Traditions and taboos passed down through generations form the guiding principles of the Tao people's lives on the island. After the flying fish season concludes, it is the Tao people's 'pitanatana', the 'month of pottery making', believed to be the most opportune time for crafting ceramics. Traditionally, only men participate in the pottery-making process, adhering strictly to the taboos and traditions inherited from their ancestors. The Tao people are one of the few indigenous groups in Taiwan who still maintain the tradition of pottery making. They categorize the quality of clay into blue, red, and yellow. The rarest and highest quality is the blue clay, which can only be gathered from the mountains and the headwaters of streams. This whale tail necklace incorporates this blue clay. It is fired in an electric kiln and finished with a layer of glaze, making it scratch-resistant and fade-proof, suitable for both mountain adventures and sea excursions. | Whale Tail Colors | From left to right: Natural (unglazed), Yellow, Red, White, Blue, Dark Green, Black https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53473374029_d9d3affb1a.jpg Cord Colors: 1. Wax leather cord: Colors available to choose from https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53473207643_3615039195.jpg 2. South American waxed cord: Colors available to choose from https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53473373989_cc1da7b833.jpg Cord Length (65cm - 70cm): 1. Wax leather cord: Adjustable length. To adjust, pinch the knot area to prevent loosening. 2. South American waxed cord: Adjustable length. To adjust, pinch the knot area to prevent loosening. ————————— Living on Orchid Island and drawing inspiration from its land, each piece is handcrafted from gathering clay on the mountains to the final firing. We hope you'll carry this small piece of Orchid Island with you. ————————— | Before You Buy | 1. Each of our creations is uniquely handmade, retaining its individual texture and marks. After placing your order, we will contact you promptly to select your preferred whale tail, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. 2. For both wax leather cords and handmade cords, please avoid contact with detergents and excessively hot water. Prolonged wear will cause wear and tear; regular replacement is recommended. 3. Each piece is meticulously crafted in our studio. While our ceramic products are water-resistant, acid-resistant, and colorfast, they are not impact-resistant. Please handle with care after purchase. 4. Due to the logistical challenges between Orchid Island and mainland Taiwan, please be patient with delivery times after purchase. We appreciate your understanding in cases of flight cancellations due to weather. 5. Your item will be carefully packaged to prevent damage during shipping. To avoid disputes, please record the entire unboxing process. 6. Feel free to send us a private message with any questions before or after your purchase. We also welcome any inquiries you may have about Orchid Island.