This dentalia shell choker was made around 1968 by Mae Ring. It has ten ranks of dentalia shells, graduating from largest in the center to smallest at the ends. Each rank of shells is seven shells tall and separated by a strip of leather, which Ring said is very important, since most chokers are only five or six shells high. The choker is strung on simulated sinew and was worn by Ring's husband, Isaac (Ike) Peters, as a traditional object of personal adornment.

Historically, dentalia was traded from the Pacific Northwest into the Midwest area and was highly prized. The shells are, by nature, very delicate. This example, with seven shells per rank, is an excellent example of a traditional/contemporary adornment.

Redesign of the Anishinabek: The People of this Place exhibit. Ideas for potential artifacts.

Isaac "Ike" Peters, Jr. (1923-1992) was a member of the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians and was a well-known and well respected elder of the Michigan Native American community. Known for his bead and leather work, he along with his wife Mae Ring passed those traits on to their daughter, Renee Dillard. Several of his pieces are on display in the GRPM. (Source: Canku Ota - September 1, 2010 - Local Tribal Member To Receive 2010 Michigan Heritage Award)

Around 1852 the great-grandfather of Peters, Wasaquom, was presented the Millard Fillmore Presidential Peace Medal, which was awarded to important Native American leaders.