Spiny Oyster is cherished for its beautiful colors and rich heritage, dating back centuries.  The shells are found primarily in the warmer waters along the coast of Baja, California or in the Sea of Cortez.  Many people don't realize that the color of the shell reveals the oyster's age and how deep it is found in the ocean.  Orange shells are the youngest shells, usually 2-5 years and are found in shallower water.  Red shells are a little older, around 5-10 years and found deeper but purple shells are the oldest and have been forming for over 10 years in the deeper, colder water of the ocean.  Purple shells tend to have more texture and pitting, carrying the marks of time.  Some cultures believe that the spiny pieces possess similar qualities as the ocean and are powerful and calming to the person wearing them