As a native of Vero Beach, Florida, my love affair with the ocean and its sandy shores began the moment I took my first steps on the pristine beaches of the Treasure Coast. From the gentle lullaby of the waves to the golden hues of sunrise painting the horizon, there's an undeniable magic that envelops this coastal paradise. Growing up surrounded by such natural splendor instilled in me a deep appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the sea.
In this week’s blog, I invite you to join me on a journey through the treasures of Florida's East Coast, particularly the enchanting shores of Vero Beach. Together, we'll delve into the art of beachcombing – an age-old tradition that holds a special place in my heart. Through my eyes, you'll discover the hidden gems scattered along the coastline, each telling a story of its own. You never know what you might find.
A rare find, the loin's paw is among the most treasured shells found on the Treasure Coast
Treasure Coast Beachcombing with a Purpose
Beyond the idyllic scenery and soothing sounds of the ocean, beachcombing holds a profound significance for those who call the coast their home. It's more than just a leisurely stroll along the shore; it's a sacred ritual, a way of life ingrained in the fabric of many inhabitants of coastal communities.
Many locals and visitors have a love for our shores including my husband and I who bask in the beauty of Vero Beach, searching for treasure as often as possible.
For me, beachcombing is not only a source of joy and wonder but also a responsibility. It's a chance to give back to the ocean that has given me so much by collecting trash and debris that threaten its delicate ecosystem. Every discarded plastic bottle, every tangled fishing line removed from the sand is a small victory in the battle to preserve our coastal habitats.
Plastics like these are one of the primary issues for the safety of marine life and can be found in abundance on our beaches. They are easily collected when you are out looking for beach treasures.
But beachcombing is not just about cleaning up the beach; it's about fostering a deeper connection with nature. It's about slowing down, tuning in to the rhythms of the sea, and marveling at the intricate beauty of shells, sea glass, and other treasures washed ashore. Through the simple act of beachcombing, we become stewards of the coast, guardians of its fragile beauty.
So, why should you collect trash while beachcombing? Because every piece picked up is a step towards a cleaner, healthier ocean – and a brighter future for generations to come. And, on the Treasure Coast, it is an opportunity to help save endangered and threatened species including the Atlantic Loggerhead Sea Turtle who nest here in numbers that are unmatched anywhere else on Earth. Join me in embracing the true spirit of beachcombing as we embark on this journey of discovery along Florida's Treasure Coast.
Sunken Treasures: Hunting for History on the Treasure Coast
The allure of sunken treasure ships along the Treasure Coast is steeped in centuries of maritime history and intrigue. Long before the Gulf Stream was charted in the 1770s by the visionary Benjamin Franklin, it served as the primary conduit for maritime travel between the Caribbean and Europe. Ponce De Leon's discovery of this oceanic current in 1513 marked the beginning of an era where nearly every ship returning from the riches of the Caribbean or the Spanish Colonies would pass perilously close to our shores.
Below map from worldhistory.org
Throughout the annals of history, countless vessels met their fate along the treacherous reefs and unforgiving coastlines of the Treasure Coast. From fierce storms to ruthless pirates, the perils of the sea claimed many lives and fortunes, leaving behind a trove of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered beneath the waves.
Among the most famous and plentiful of these sunken treasures are the remnants of Spanish galleons, laden with gold, silver, and precious gemstones destined for the coffers of European monarchs. Yet, the bounty doesn't end there. Asian porcelain, artifacts of trade, and remnants of everyday life from centuries past lie scattered amidst the sandy depths, waiting to be unearthed by intrepid treasure hunters and beachcombers alike.
Here is an Image of my Husband, Corey, from a recent article in Vero Beach Magazine. He is an archaeologist from the Treasure Coast who is currently the Park Services Specialist at the McLarty Treasure Museum. Anyone interested in metal detecting our shores should stop by and learn what to look for and why the 1715 Fleet was so important to World History.
Today, enthusiasts armed with metal detectors and a passion for history flock to the shores of the Treasure Coast in search of their own piece of maritime history. Each discovery offers a glimpse into the past, a tangible connection to the lives and legends of those who sailed these waters long ago.
Tips and Techniques for Treasure Hunting on Florida's East Coast
- Learning about the Treasure: Many of the items from the treasure ships will look quite different from what you might expect. A visit to the McLarty Treasure Museum and Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum is an essential pilgrimage for any aspiring treasure hunter. Here, you'll encounter a treasure trove of artifacts and treasures, each with its own unique story to tell, and the McLarty Treasure Museum is rum by one of my favorite people, my husband. Prepare to be amazed as you witness firsthand the wonders of the deep, brought to life through centuries-old relics, passionate people, and tales of adventure.
- Looking for Diverse Treasures: While most shipwreck treasures are comprised of metal, requiring the use of a quality metal detector, the bounty extends far beyond mere coins and artifacts. Gems, Asian porcelain, and a myriad of other treasures can be found while combing the beaches, offering a diverse array of opportunities for those with a keen eye and a patient spirit.
- Targeting the Hotspots: With a shipwreck roughly every two miles along the Treasure Coast, the potential for discovery is vast and varied. While treasure may be scattered far and wide, there are certain hotspots where the odds are more favorable. Familiarize yourself with these prime locations to maximize your chances of striking gold. I have linked the two most helpful books here and here, in case you mean to give it a go.
- Persistence, Knowledge, and Luck: As with any endeavor, success in treasure hunting requires a combination of persistence, knowledge, and a touch of luck. Arm yourself with historical insights, hone your skills as a detectorist, and embrace the thrill of the hunt with unwavering determination.
Here are two great books by our good friends that we wholeheartedly recommend to aide you in your treasure hunting along our shores. Each is available online or at the McLarty Treasure Museum, where all proceeds benefit The Friends of Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Remember, every find is a testament to your dedication and passion for uncovering the secrets of the past. And, if you are lucky enough to find something of value and want it made into wearable treasure, my staff and I have the experience, appreciation of history, and artistic talent to make a piece you are proud to wear every day.
Here are just a few of the locally found shipwreck treasures that we have for sale at Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry
Shelling in Vero Beach: A Paradise for Shell Enthusiasts
The Rich Diversity of Shells Along Vero Beach
Here, on the Treasure Coast, the rhythm of the waves lapping against the white sand beaches beats out a call to beachcombers of all ages. Each tidal ebb and flow brings with is a new batch of shells to adorn the sandy expanse. From delicate spirals to rugged conches, the shores of Vero Beach can boast a rich diversity of shells, each bearing testament to the intricate beauty of marine life. However, much like the Spanish treasure, it can be hard to find species that are worth collecting.
As avid shell enthusiasts traverse the shoreline in search of their prized specimens, they'll encounter an array of common shells. Among these treasures are the iconic lightning whelks, distinguished by their spiraling, elongated shells and vibrant hues ranging from deep purples to soft pinks. But even more common are buckets full of other less collected shells like turkey wings, olive shells, limpets, cockle shells, and various scallops.
The beauty of these shells is often overlooked due to their abundance, but I have found that they are excellent for art projects and even jewelry when you select the best of the group. Even more so when supplemented with a few of the more rare and spectacular specimens mentioned below. The below slide show shares some of my favorite uses for the “common shells I have found on Vero’s Beaches.
The commonality of these shells does not negate their importance to the ecosystem, and we tend to find live organisms inside them. Please replace any shell that is inhabited.
There are also many other species that utilize the shells you pick up. While we are not suggesting you leave behind all your treasure, we do advocate only taking the perfect specimens and only when they are uninhabited.
Elusive Treasures: Rare Shells Found Along Florida's East Coast
Beyond the familiar sights of common shells lie the elusive treasures that stir the hearts of shell collectors and beachcombers alike. Along the pristine shores of Florida's East Coast, rare shells await discovery, each shrouded in mystery and allure. From the elusive Junonia, with its striking patterns and coveted status among collectors, to the prized Lion's Paw, adorned with intricate ridges and a majestic presence, these rare gems evoke a sense of wonder and reverence for the ocean's hidden treasures. Below, you can cycle through some of my favorites.
Stories Behind the Rarity: Fascinating Facts about Rare Florida Shells
Behind every rare shell lies a tale as captivating as the shell itself, woven through the annals of natural history and maritime lore. The Junonia, for instance, derives its name from the ancient Roman goddess Juno, revered as the protector of women and guardian of the home. Legend has it that finding a Junonia brings good fortune and blessings upon the fortunate discoverer, adding to its mystique and allure.
Similarly, the Lion's Paw shell holds a storied past, symbolizing strength, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity. In ancient times, these shells were prized by warriors as protective talismans, imbued with the power to ward off evil spirits and bring victory in battle. Today, the Lion's Paw remains a symbol of bravery and perseverance, cherished by collectors for its rare beauty and historical significance.
Sea Beans: Nature's Conquistadors
As we continue our journey along the captivating shores of Vero Beach, our exploration of nature's treasures leads us to the enchanting world of sea beans. These humble yet intriguing seeds drift across oceans, carried by currents and tides, before finding their way to the sandy shores of Florida's East Coast occasionally planting a new species, but more often finding their way into the waiting hands of a beachcomber.
Exploring the Intriguing World of Sea Beans along Florida's East Coast
Step foot onto the sun-drenched beaches of Vero, and you may find yourself captivated by the curious array of sea beans scattered amidst the seashells and driftwood. From the smooth, polished surface of the sea heart to the intricate patterns of the hamburger bean, each seed tells a tale of adventure and exploration, journeying from distant shores to our own. There are many species of seed that make up the corpus of Florida sea beans, a few of which you can see below.
Significance and Symbolism of Sea Beans in Coastal Ecology
Sea beans are so much more than mere collectables or curiosities; they play a vital role in coastal ecology, serving as vital conduits for the dispersal of plant species and nutrients across vast oceanic expanses. Their presence along Florida's East Coast serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems, linking distant lands and fostering biodiversity along our shores.
The Quest for Sea Glass: Uncovering Gems of the Ocean
With the allure of sea beans still fresh in our minds, our journey along Florida's East Coast takes an artistic turn as we set our sights on the shimmering treasures of sea glass. Ironically forming from one person’s litter, these weathered shards of glass bear the imprint of time and tide, transformed by the relentless caress of the ocean into beautiful, colorful treasures in the minds of many.
Sea Glass Hunting: A Delightful Pursuit Along Florida's Coastline
As you venture along the sandy shores of Vero Beach, and you'll soon find yourself drawn to the sparkling glint of sea glass peeking out from beneath the sand. From soft pastel hues to vibrant jewel tones, the diversity of sea glass mirrors the kaleidoscope of colors found in nature, offering endless opportunities for discovery and delight.
Commonly, sea glass is found in hues of brown, white, and green due to the propensity of these colors in the bottling industry. However, collectors are always on the search for the more illusive colors like red, purple, blue and yellow.
I think my favorite is what is called “black glass” or “pirate glass”. These are old, thick green glass sherds that once sailed to our shores on ancient ships filled with Rum or Madeira that was part of every sailor’s pay during Colonial times.
From Find to Fashion: Crafting with Beachcombing Finds
As our exploration of Florida's East Coast treasures continues, we now turn our attention to the artistry of transforming beachcombing finds into wearable works of art and stunning décor pieces.
Above is a bust that I was commissioned to make for a 5-star hotel on South Beach, and below is one that I currently have for sale at Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry
Turning Treasures into Trinkets: How Beachcombing Finds Can Be Transformed into Jewelry
The treasures we collect along the shores of Vero Beach hold endless potential, waiting to be imbued with new life and purpose. Among the most popular transformations is the creation of jewelry, where sea shells, sea beans, sea glass, and even treasure coins find new expression as wearable treasures.
There are some of my favorite examples of beachcombing crafts I have made recently in this section.
Creative Inspirations: Ideas for Incorporating Beachcombing Finds into Art Projects
- Seashells: Across cultures and continents, seashells have been cherished as symbols of beauty, abundance, and spirituality. From traditional uses as beads in indigenous cultures to modern interpretations in jewelry-making, seashells offer a wealth of creative possibilities. In my own artistic endeavors, I've found joy in incorporating shells into not only jewelry but also adorning mirrors, frames, pots, and busts, infusing each piece with the timeless allure of the ocean.
To make this mirror, it took me two years to collect the shell
- Ideas for the Use of Sea Beans in Crafts and Jewelry: With their unique shapes and textures, sea beans offer endless inspiration for crafting. From intricate macramé designs to stunning beaded necklaces, these curious seeds lend themselves beautifully to a variety of artistic mediums.
- Ideas for Using Sea Glass in Crafts and Jewelry: Sea glass, with its smooth, weathered surface and jewel-like translucence, is a favorite among artisans for creating stunning jewelry and decorative accents. Whether incorporated into mosaic designs, wire-wrapped pendants, or elegant earrings, sea glass adds a touch of seaside sophistication to any project.
- Wearing Treasure Coins as Jewelry and the Artistry of Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry: For those seeking a touch of history and luxury, treasure coins offer a unique opportunity to wear a piece of maritime history. At Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry, artisans skillfully transform treasure coins found along the Treasure Coast into exquisite, one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry. Each creation is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of these talented individuals, who breathe new life into ancient relics and celebrate the enduring legacy of Florida's rich maritime heritage.
At Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry, one of our specialties is creating jewelry from coins. Many of these are beach finds from Treasure Coast shipwrecks like those seen below:
Conclusion
I extend a heartfelt invitation to fellow adventurers and beachcombing enthusiasts to join me in embracing the magic of the ocean and the treasures it holds.
With each step upon the sandy shores of Vero Beach, we embark on a voyage of discovery, where every shell, sea bean, and glimmering shard of sea glass tells a story of the sea's timeless allure. I invite you to wander along the coastline, to lose yourself in the rhythm of the waves, and to uncover the hidden treasures that await beneath the sun-drenched sands.
At Victoria Ashley Fine Jewelry, we share your passion for beachcombing, and I welcome you to come by to share your beachcombing passion and treasures with us. Together, we can transform your cherished finds into exquisite pieces of wearable art, each imbued with the spirit of the sea and the beauty of nature's bounty.
We celebrate the majesty of the ocean and the treasures it bestows upon us through our jewelry and art. Our coastal-inspired jewelry reflects the beauty of the sea and incorporates our own beachcombing finds, creating timeless pieces that capture the essence of coastal living.
In addition to our coastal-inspired jewelry, we offer a curated collection of treasure coins sourced from our shores and around the world. With a network of friends in the treasure-hunting community and a passion for exploration, we travel far and wide in search of rare and extraordinary coins to share with our customers.
As we revel in the beauty of the ocean and the treasures it holds, let us not forget our responsibility to preserve and protect these precious coastal ecosystems. Through mindful beachcombing practices and a commitment to conservation efforts, we can ensure that future generations will continue to experience the wonder and magic of Florida's East Coast treasures.
Together, let us stand as stewards of the sea, guardians of its fragile beauty, and advocates for its preservation. For in the end, it is our love for the ocean and its treasures that binds us together and inspires us to protect the natural wonders that enrich our lives.
1 comment
Love this!