The Art of a Sailor's Valentine

The idea of a Sailor's Valentine is so sweet. I've always imagined a sailor both carefully and lovingly setting each tiny shell into place as he longs for his love on a distant land. The boat rocks him back and forth threatening to break the valentine but if he can just keep it safe his love will prosper. NOPE. Supposedly, Barbados women handmade these octagonal pieces and sailors purchased them before leaving port. Popular in the 19th century these antiques are now collectables. I found this one on 1st dibs selling for over $2k. That certainly makes a dozen roses sound cheap! Also, rumor has it the new Sailor's Valentine is a Yours & Mine bracelet pair from Sailormade ;-)