Catalogue no.: |
64 (temporary) |
Botanical classification: |
LEGUMINOSAE-PAPILIONOIDEAE Mucuna fawcettii
POACEAE Coix sp.
CANNACEAE Canna sp.
-threaded on palm fibre
|
Common name: |
Sea bean (Mucuna fawcettii), Job's tears (Coix sp.) and Indian shot (Canna sp.) |
Geographical description: |
Peru |
|
Item description: |
Necklace made of seeds of sea beans, Job's tears and Indian shot. |
Length: |
126cm |
No. of beads: |
85 rose, 10 of unknown material |
Bead size: |
0.8-1.8cm long |
Plant information: |
Mucuna seeds have a multi-layered appearance and are durable. They are produced by climbing woody vines (lianas) native to the Caribbean. The seed pods covered with microscopic velvety hairs which can cause irritation. |
Collection date: |
1997 |
Donor: |
Ruth Smith has spent many years collecting botanical jewellery from around the world and donated her large collection to Kew in 2005. It numbers over 200 items, made from various plant parts such as seeds and bark, from a wide range of species. |
