![]() ![]() The mineral component of shells is calcium carbonate – the same material eggshells are made of. The biological aspects include protein and chitin – the same material found in the shell of a crustacean like a lobster – and they form the flexible scaffold that minerals fill the gaps of. In the case of seashells, they are made of both mineral and biological features. Shells are actually part of a category of objects called “composite materials,” meaning they are composed of a combination of different components. While they may look like bumpy bones or sculpted stones, they are neither. Which begs the question - what are these sturdy shells made of? As the name suggests, all mollusks have soft, squishy bodies, so many species create firm shells for structure and protection. The word mollusk originates in part from the Latin word “mollis,” meaning soft. Most seashells come from a group of animals called mollusks, which includes everything from oysters to octopuses. ![]() Known for their vibrant patterns and glossy appearance, tiger cowry shells are found from the eastern coast of Africa all the way to Hawaii. As a result, seashells are useful to both aquatic critters and scientists on dry land – including those at the National Museum of Natural History. Constructed by everything from sea snails to scallops, seashells are beautiful biological treasures that contain hints of the marine environments they came from. Due to their varied charm, humans have prized seashells for as long as they have collected pretty things.īut by the time they wash ashore, seashells have already had an extensive history. From smooth to rough, spiraled to dished, and pure white to vibrant colors of the rainbow, shells come in all shapes, sizes, and textures. ![]() Seashells, often found lining the seashore, stand out among the sand like precious gems. With summer finally here, many of us are ready to hit the beach to beat the heat – which means it’s officially time to look for seashells. Not only is this regal murex seasnail shell stunning in appearance, but the stark contrast between the inner and outer shell highlights the complexity of seashell formation. ![]()
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