Braided Necklace with Coin

The 8 reales is a silver coin associated with Spanish and international trading history. Its English name, “piece of eight,” refers to its value of eight reales. This historical context explains the coin’s place in the design; it does not replace identification of the individual coin mounted in the necklace.

The coin’s marks and relief contribute to the composition. Braided leather creates a supple frame, while a Tahitian cultured pearl adds a point of light at the closure. The pearl retains its individual shape and surface characteristics.

Dated between 1530 and 1750, the coins used in this design each tell their own story of time. The date varies from one example to another, as does the weight, which ranges from 25 to 27 g. We work with professional numismatic partners to select our coins. We source them from specialists, through auctions and at collectors’ fairs such as Sběratel in Prague, Czech Republic, where coin exhibitors and collectors are among those who meet. The Kalinas & Tainos certificate attests to the authenticity of all materials used in the jewelry. It is not an official numismatic certificate for the coin.

Kalinas & Tainos is a French-Caribbean jewelry brand founded in Saint-Barthélemy in 2011, where every creation draws inspiration from the sea, travel, and the beauty of natural materials.

At the heart of the brand is Jérémy, its founder and creative director, originally from Provence. With a lifelong passion for the underwater world, objects rich in history, and design, his journey naturally led him to the Caribbean, where the colors of the ocean, the unique light of Saint-Barthélemy, and the beauty of cultured pearls continue to inspire him every day.

For over fifteen years, Kalinas & Tainos has been designing and assembling customizable jewelry in Saint-Barthélemy, combining Tahitian, South Sea, freshwater, and Akoya cultured pearls, rare conch pearls, gemstones, ancient coins, kangaroo leather, sterling silver 925, and gold. Each creation is designed to reveal the unique character of these materials through an elegant, timeless style deeply inspired by the art of living in Saint-Barthélemy.

More than a piece of jewelry, Kalinas & Tainos seeks to convey an emotion, a travel memory, and a lasting connection to Saint-Barth. Each creation is designed to accompany its wearer through the years and stand the test of time, like the memory of a precious moment.

Remove the necklace before showering, swimming, exercising and sleeping. Water, salt, chlorine, perspiration and repeated friction can dry out the leather and accelerate wear. Let it air-dry naturally if it becomes damp. Do not polish the ancient coin or use abrasive products: its patina is part of its history.

Before storing your necklace, gently wipe the ancient coin, the pearl, the leather and the metal with a soft, dry cloth. This removes perspiration, cosmetics and other residues that may affect the materials over time, even while the piece remains in its jewelry box. Store it separately from other jewelry to limit friction.

What are the necklace’s components?

An approximately 35 mm silver 8 reales coin, braided kangaroo leather and an approximately 9.5 mm Tahitian pearl at the clasp. The pearl is BC quality and baroque in shape.

When does the coin date from and how much does it weigh?

The date varies by example, between 1530 and 1750. The coin weighs between 25 and 27 g; this is the weight of the coin alone.

What certificate comes with the jewelry?

The Kalinas & Tainos certificate attests to the authenticity of all materials used in the jewelry. It is issued by our boutique and is not an official numismatic certificate for the coin.

How do you select your antique coins?

We work with professional numismatic partners. Our coins are selected from specialists, through auctions and at collectors’ fairs such as Sběratel in Prague, Czech Republic.

What does “pirate coin” mean?

The name evokes the maritime history of 8 reales coins. It does not establish that the individual coin came from a shipwreck or belonged to a pirate.

How does the clasp at the neck work?

The pearl and its loop form a closure at the neck. This gives a clean fit, without leather adjustment ends hanging down the back.

Can the clasp open while being worn?

The loop is fitted around the pearl to maintain the closure during ordinary movement. Avoid strong pulls and snagging. If the loop loosens, have the construction checked before continuing to wear the necklace.

Which measurement should I choose?

The measurement is the desired total necklace length. Place a piece of string around your neck to find the pendant position you prefer, then measure it flat. Offered lengths run from 30 to 110 cm.

What if I do not know my exact measurement?

Choose a length you enjoy on another necklace. For a precise pendant position, use the string method. The selected size will determine the finished construction.

Can I adjust the length after delivery?

This design is made to the selected length and has no sliding knots. A later change requires workshop work on the construction or leather.

Can I wear it every day?

Yes, while caring for the leather and coin. Remove it before showering, swimming, exercising or sleeping to limit moisture, friction and tension.

How should I condition dry leather?

Apply a very small amount of vegetable oil, such as monoi, olive or coconut oil, or shea butter to the leather only. Massage gently and remove any excess. Avoid deposits on the coin and pearl.

Can I polish the coin with a silver-cleaning product?

Do not automatically use a silver-cleaning product on this antique coin. Its patina and marks are part of its condition; work on the coin requires appropriate advice before cleaning.

How should I store my necklace?

Before storing your necklace, gently wipe the ancient coin, the pearl, the leather and the metal with a soft, dry cloth. This removes perspiration, cosmetics and other residues that may affect the materials over time, even while the piece remains in its jewelry box. Store it separately from other jewelry to limit friction.

Can the leather be replaced and what does it cost?

The workshop can replace the leather while preserving the coin and pearl. Replacement costs €40, plus €10 for return shipping. Request the sending instructions before shipping your piece.

Can I request a particular adaptation?

Yes. Another length, a preferred pearl shade or a different combination with the leather can be requested through “Fully customize this necklace.” The team will explore your project.