Kultura Filipino, Manila

What to buy here: Abaca Basket | Abaca placemats, napkins and coasters | Bamboo Baul | Banig | Capiz Items | Coconut wine | Dried Mango (vacuum sealed) | Jeepney models | Kamagong Salad Server | Shell Caviar Dish | Shell made napkin ring set | Tikog slippers |

Capiz is both a geographical location and the name of a shell that is used largely in interior decorating and for decorative gifts and accessories found in the Philippines. Geographically speaking, Capiz is a province of the Philippines facing the Sibuyan Sea to the north. Capiz shell, which is used for decorative purposes, is the outer shell of the marine mollusk, Placuna placenta, found in the shallow coastal waters of the Philippines. Capiz shells are often flat, semi-transparent shell with a pearlescent appearance. It is often used to create lampshades or other luminescent objects, such as candle holders, because

of its striking appearance when light shines through. However, it is just as common to see the bases of lamps crafted with capiz shell. Capiz is also frequently used as an accent to many household and fashion accessories and is generally considered to be elegant and formal.

The decorative purposes of capiz are virtually limitless, and the look it gives depends largely on the quantity used and the accompanying materials, with silver or gold being the most formal and wood being a more casual material combined with capiz. The price range of the Capiz shell products is from Php 119.75 to Php 1999.75. It is available for purchase at Kultura Filipino at the 2nd floor SM Ayala, Makati City. Alternatively, it can also be purchased at Jonats Handicrafts in Stall 32-34 Building 11, Tiendesitas, Pasig City.