Family Carving

A being's family is important, and an octopi's family even more so. We see where we came from and we see the environment we were raised in, which shows us who we are today. I have my own history, but I don't trust land dwellers so it's hidden. For now, I carry my names inscribed on my heart. 

— Iloi

Mechanics & Inner Workings

This is a ball-shaped piece of coral that has etchings on it with different colored ink that tells who is related by blood and who is related as found kin for one specific octopi-being.
It's carved while underwater and the ink is set into the gouges so that it dries overnight in the open air.

by Davidclode

Significance

For these sea-beings, this item shows family history, relationships, and blood-and-found-kin (i.e. very significant). This is a very specific language that can't be completely seen by others and might be at its best underwater in depths that add shadows and richness to the hues.  For humans, this is a prized piece that shows leadership and who/which family is responsible for the settlement/village. (i.e. not very significant since other items could be used)

Item type

Miscellaneous

Rarity

The specific colors an symbols are rare, however, the item itself is common (almost like a book itself is common yet the story can be one of a kind).

Weight

10kg

Dimensions

70cm in circumference

Base Price

priceless

Raw materials & Components

The main material is of coral which is usually bleached white in the sunlight. However, a new design being made by the younger generation is that the coral keeps its colour and only when ink is added does it soak up sunlight, which creates a faded effect. 

The ink is made from family recipes; while most colours are a common secret, there are still some that are fiercely guarded and having that ink is proof that a being is connected or from a specific family.

Tools

The ball itself needs to be hand-curled. When a person is born, in the area that they first learn about their family, they take a piece of coral and begin to bend it into shape. By the time that they leave, they have already carved out their mother's lineage and have room for found family.

Carving is done with sharks' teeth.