Tasmanian Marineer shell necklace, possibly Aboriginal made, early 20th century

These interesting items were traditionally made by the women of the Tasmanian Kouri tribes. With the removal of the Aboriginal people to the Bass Straits Islands in the later 19th century, this tradition became based there, allowing a small income by selling the necklaces to visitors. Many Tasmanian jewellers sold them in the earlier 20th century