Information about Shells

Shells are calcium carbonate-based structures formed by marine organisms such as mollusks, brachiopods, and bivalves. They exhibit a wide range of shapes, textures, and colours, depending on the species.

Common shell appearances include smooth, ridged, spiralled, or fan-shaped forms. Many shells feature mother-of-pearl (nacre) layers, giving them an iridescent sheen.

Over time, shells can fossilise, turning into sedimentary rocks such as limestone or coquina.

Uses and History

Shells have been used throughout history for tools, jewellery, currency, and decoration. Crushed shells are utilized in agriculture (soil amendment), construction (lime production, cement filler), and industrial applications (water filtration, cosmetics). In the scientific field, shells help researchers study paleoenvironments and marine evolution.

Shells have played a significant role in human culture for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations used them for ornaments, religious artifacts, and tools.

Some culture used shells as currency.

Fossilised shells provide evidence of prehistoric marine life, with famous deposits found in limestone formations worldwide.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Inhaling shell dust can be quite toxic and care should be taken to minimise any dust from shells being worked.

Please read this article for a warning story.

https://torontolife.com/life/my-beautiful-death/

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis. When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Most of these translations are for the word ‘seashell’ rather than shell, as it doesn’t seem to translate well, perhaps because shell can also mean case, artillery round, etc.

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seashell
• https://www.countryfile.com/wildlife/marine-life/british-seashell-guide-how-to-identify-and-where-to-find