Do you call these Cowrie or Groatie earrings? It depends where you are from.

Groatie shells (sometimes spelt “groatie buckies”) are small cowrie shells traditionally associated with Scottish folklore, especially in the Orkney and Shetland Islands. These shells are considered lucky charms and are often collected on beaches, particularly after storms.

Groaties are said to bring good luck, especially in fishing communities. Some people believed finding one would bring fortune or protect against misfortune.

In some stories, groatie shells are linked to Selkies —mythical seal-people of Scottish and Irish folklore. People believed the shells were part of the treasure.

I’d like to think that my wee version of these shells, in the form of earrings, will bring you luck and that you will treasure them too.

Size 8mm in length.