€ 155
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Darwin's phylogenetic tree necklace | sterling silver
A biology student in Norway wore this Darwin necklace every day through final exams, hoping for good luck. It makes a present for someone with her own biology degree nearly done, or a necklace to wear through your own.
Who It's For
- a daughter graduating in evolutionary science
- a doctoral candidate, as her graduation gift
- a biology teacher, as a gift she will appreciate
- your wife
- yourself, if Darwin is the reason you chose biology
Christine M.: “Purchased as a doctoral candidate graduation gift, the recipient could not have been more pleased.” Maaike v., who studies evolutionary biology: “I was a bit worried that it was going to be a very fragile necklace, but it's not. Of course you should be careful with it, but it seems like a very durable necklace.”
What Common Descent Means Today
Darwin argued that species are related through shared ancestors, so their lines of descent join as you trace them back. Biologists have since followed those lines to a last universal common ancestor, known as LUCA, from which all known cellular life descends. One clue: almost every organism reads its genes with the same genetic code, in which the same three-letter units stand for the same amino acids, with small variations in some microbes and in mitochondria. In 2024 a team led by Edmund Moody estimated from genetic data that LUCA lived about 4.2 billion years ago. Some researchers think it lived later, but all place it billions of years back.
Explore Related Evolution and Genetics Jewelry
- Darwin's phylogenetic tree necklace | gold vermeil
- phylogenetic tree necklace | silver
- Mendel's peas necklace | silver
- trilobite necklace | silver
FAQ
How big is the pendant, and how does it sit?
The pendant measures 41 mm (1.6 inches), about 15 mm more than the width of a 2-euro coin, so it is a sizeable piece. It is fixed to the chain at both ends, so it lies sideways around the collarbone, on a 45 cm (17.7 inch) sterling silver chain with a 5 cm (2 inch) extender. Extra chains for layering can be added on this page: 40, 42, 45 or 50 cm with the extender, or 80 cm. Our sterling silver is nickel-free and hypoallergenic.
Is there a gold version?
Yes. The same Darwin's phylogenetic tree necklace comes in gold vermeil, also 41 mm, on a 45 cm gold vermeil chain with a 5 cm extender. Choose the finish the recipient already wears: the design is the same in both. The phylogenetic tree necklace is a different design, a 34 mm pendant, in sterling silver and in gold vermeil.
Will it arrive in time, and what if it isn't right?
DHL Express delivers free in 1-5 business days worldwide, and we pay the import duties and taxes, so nothing is due at the door. It arrives in a ready-to-gift jewelry box and festive envelope. If it isn't right, our 30-day “Love It or Return It” policy applies.
Where is Darwin's “I think” sketch today?
At Cambridge University Library. In 1837 Darwin drew a branching diagram on page 36 of his Notebook B, with “I think” above it, while working out the balance between living and extinct species. In January 2001 staff found that the box holding Notebooks B and C was not back in its place after photography. In 2020 the library concluded they had probably been stolen and appealed worldwide. On 9 March 2022 both were returned anonymously, in a pink gift bag, with a note wishing the librarian a happy Easter.
Is it delicate?
Yes, it needs some care. The branches are fine and open, and the pendant can bend at the midpoint more easily than you might expect. Put it on after creams and perfume, and take it off for sleep, sport and anything that could catch or squeeze it. Store it flat on its own, away from heavier pieces, and clean it with a soft dry cloth.
Other
In a world where art and science often exist in separate realms, our "Curiosities" collection serves as a harmonious confluence. Drawing inspiration from an eclectic range of scientific phenomena not covered elsewhere. Each piece is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder. It's jewelry that doesn't just adorn; it educates and fascinates, sparking conversations about the lesser-explored but equally awe-inspiring facets of our universe.
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