Turtle pendant

There are species of turtles all over the world, unfortunately some are already extinct or are endangered. Humans have many times been the reason for their destruction. Fortunately many countries are making the effort to increase their numbers by giving them protective status, sheltering the grown turtles as well as their eggs. I saw this on beaches in Mexico and in Costa Rica. In Costa Rica I went on a midnight walk to observe a sea turtle come in from the ocean to lay her eggs on the sandy beach in a hole she dug. There are stories and myths about turtles in all countries. In some mythology they are shown much reverence. This turtle pendant was etched onto sheet sterling silver in an acid bath. After refining and polishing it was depletion gilded so I could burnish it with 24K Gold foil, an ancient Korean technique called Keum Boo. It was painted with patina. I love the ponderous serious look turtles have as they slowly lumber around. Dimensions : 1.5 inches X 1.25 inches. Heavy ster