PATTERNED BEETLE WING COVER NECKLACE
Macrodontia cervicornis
Peru
The macrodontia is one of the largest beetles in the world, although almost half of its length is contributed by the enormous mandibles whence its Greek name is derived. It is notable also, however, for the lovely warm brown and tan patterning of its elytra (wing covers), attractively stippled towards the end, six pairs of which are here suspended on bright red beads and pale tan spacers from a braided black thread, to form a highly unusual and attractive piece of natural jewelry.