Humans and shells go way, way back.

A lot of human history can be told through the use of seashells. Over 100,000 years ago, from caves in South Africa to the Mediterranean, we crafted shells into all sorts of jewellery.

Necklaces and cuff bracelets were among the most popular items. They were chunky and sturdy enough to be worked on with tools. They didn't have the know-how or equipment we have today that allows pieces to have more detail.

When we weren't wearing it, shells were also used as currency or as cutting tools.

Where would we be without shells?

Those who love the ocean and its beauty will naturally gravitate toward this jewellery, but why else do people wear them?

As we said, sea shells have played a part in our lives for hundreds of thousands of years, giving them plenty of time to manifest various meanings depending on the culture (or personal preference).

Primarily, someone may wear a shell bracelet because it makes them feel protected against negative energy. The cowrie shell, in particular, is associated with this, as well as its supposed ability to help women conceive and safely give birth.

Others say their bracelet is a bridge between the physical and spiritual world. Or that the hardness of the shell will make their mental resolve stronger, too.

Whatever reason you wear shell bracelets, just know that you can connect to them however you want. Sometimes, all it means is that you have a great sense of style!

Yes, shells, of course, but what kind?

Well, there are various different shells out there, all with their unique characteristics.

The country you're in will play a part in what shells you have the easiest access to; here in Australia, for example, we have a lot of abalones but will have a hard time finding puka shells.

The most common shell used in jewellery is the cowrie shell. They naturally look quite polished and shiny, making them the perfect style for a selection of jewellery types, especially for a bracelet.

Other popular choices include puka shells, which you can find on a beach in Hawaii or other tropical islands.

Let's dive a bit deeper into this little beauty and what it means.

Due to their appearance, cowrie shells are very popular and are designed into various accessories. However, they are more than just a pretty face.

Cowrie shells are traditionally linked to the ocean goddess - a very feminine energy. With this, women wear these shells as they believe it will aid in their fertility and ensure they give birth safely.

Complete the look with our Soul Sisters Mermaid Necklace Set.

In other walks of life, cowrie shells resemble something very different. It is stated that even before currency was established, cowrie shells were used to symbolise wealth. People traded the shells in return for goods, just like how we use dollars today.

They may be small, but these shells are mighty in what they symbolise.

As they are native to Hawaii, those who live there often craft puka sea shell jewellery to then gift to others. They are said to inspire good luck and bring the wearer good fortune.

They are also a great way for Hawaiins to celebrate their culture as the puka shells are primarily found along their beaches, they carry the island's essence in their beauty.

The next time you're in the Caribbean or the Bahamas, keep an eye out for this iconic shell. Often quite large, but the smaller ones are ideal for jewellery.

Particularly in religions, the conch shell is a symbol of various things. Buddhism and Hinduism associate the shell with strength and honesty. It is also said that the conch shell makes the 'Om' sound brings enlightenment, the same sound associated with meditation.

As with the cowrie, the conch shell symbolises nature, particularly the ocean. Conch shells have a spiral at the top which some say can be read as the beginning of existence itself.

So, as you can see, these shells have numerous meanings. Do they have merit? That is totally up to you, you can choose a particular shell to wear, or make a collection of different types and stack them.

We know humans loved to wear them hundreds of thousands of years ago, but did they follow a particular style or complete the look with other accessories?

Probably not, but today, we have the fashion know how at our fingertips to make sea shell jewellery look amazing and give it the attention it deserves.

Sea shells, no matter what type, always work with a beach aesthetic. It makes sense, right? Whether you're a surfer or sunbathing, add a shell bracelet or a necklace, and you will feel right at home.

Want to wear your new bracelet to the office or formal event? You absolutely can. Our advice is to let the shell jewellery be the statement piece, don't pile on more to the collection as it will be too much.

You have a stunning new piece of jewellery, so it's time to take care of it and ensure it lasts for a long time.

Shells pick up all sorts of dust and dirt with everyday wear, so take the time to clean them when you notice them getting dull. Use warm water and gentle soap, and let your shells soak for a few minutes.

Take a soft toothbrush and give them a gentle scrub to remove any stubborn bits of build-up. Rinse them, ensuring all soap is off and pat the bracelet with a towel until it's completely dry.

Yes! Eco-friendly, boho, and ocean-inspired shell bracelets are trending, especially handmade and sustainable designs.