Sometimes the beauty of U.S. mussels is simply in the shell. Here is a Tennessee Heelsplitter Belt made from the shell of a Tennessee Heelsplitter mussel. Which, by the way, was named due to the mussel shell’s sharp edges. Step on this mussel while wading barefoot in the river and it might just cut (or split!) your heel.
If you want to read more info on the Tennessee Hellsplitter as a mussel species, click the UGA Museum of Natural Resources link here.
I am a modern day treasure hunter who travels the world for gorgeous pearls and amazing adventures. I own a pearl jewelry and jewelry repair business, ThePearlGirls.com, with a cute retail store in Athens, GA. I also have a Pearl Travel business and travel blog at TheWorldofPearl.com.