Once upon a time... about ten years ago, i saw green for the first time. I mean truly "saw" it in the revelatory sense of the word and I've never gotten over it. I think I was pushing a double wide stroller through the Atlanta Botanical Gardens when the full impact of the color hit me. Such an incredible range in one hue!
The Shagreen Cuff
Fast forward: I kept being drawn to this cuff. Kept putting it back thinking it was terribly impractical but it's actually the most amazing accent piece in my wardrobe.
The shagreen cuff is made from stingray fished off the coast of Thailand. A culinary delicacy (tastes like scallops!) it is fully utilized as a leather. Here you can see the lovely bone structure of the fish. When properly tanned, sparkles. Larger jeweled dots are from older fish. Small sparkly dots are younger fish. Each take the dye differently.
Galuchat - A French Tradition
A traditional French technique, shagreen is also known as Galuchat, named for the tanner who developed the technique. And the mint is very close to the most traditional color. Originally used for decorative items (boxes, panels, frames) there is furniture at Versaille with Galuchat panels. The furniture is deteriorating, the stingray is perfectly intact. This is a skin which creates a jewel that will be passed down to future generations with other jewelry.
Pink and Green
Shown with a pink dress, it is subdued. Nary a hint of preppy pink and green. The dress from L.K. Bennett London probably helps dispel the Lilly Pulitzer effect.
