Within a stroll of the Arcane Nonesuch studio splash the harbor waters of one of the oldest ports in New England. Unnoticed by most, the beaches of Salem, MA are enriched with treasures most inadvertently overlook. Emerging from the sea are beautiful fragments of antique pottery, porcelain and glass – vestiges of Salem’s historic past.

After collecting bowls of shards, curiosity was piqued as to how these once-sipped from cups and eaten-upon plates landed in the water. The answers were found with some research: the glamorous result indicates sunken ships and pirate lore, while the more common finding was learning that the water was once used as a disposal for everything unwanted.

The ages of the fragments can be astonishing. Some found with their maker’s mark, give solid clues of their age. Fragments can date anywhere from the late 1700s to the 1940s. Very old blue and white porcelain is common, but pottery patterns range dramatically in color and pattern. Porcelain doll parts, tavern pipe remnants and bone buttons can be found, although very rare. Once after a storm swept through a full bean crock was unearthed.

Enthralled with the history of these relics that refuse to perish, Arcane Nonesuch began creating unique jewelry with the found treasures – reviving them to a new life. Created with a stained-glass technique, each creation is one-of-a-kind as fragments vary in size, shape and pattern. Enjoy the collection - it changes frequently!