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Shells: A Natural and Cultural History
Echoing with the sounds of the sea, an exquisite survey of the science and customs of conchs, clams, coquinas, cowries, and much more.
Shells have captivated humans from the dawn of the earliest known artwork was made on a shell. As well as containers for food, shells have been used as tools, jewelry, decorations for dwellings, and to bring good luck or to ward off spirits. Many Indigenous peoples have used shells as currency, and in a few places, they still do. This beautifully illustrated book investigates the fascinating scientific and cultural history of shells. It examines everything from pearls—the only gems of animal origin—to how shells’ diverse colors and shapes are formed. And it reveals how shells have inspired artists throughout history, how shells have been used in architecture, and even how shells can be indicators of changing environmental conditions. Also including two essays by shell expert M. G. Harasewych, emeritus curator of gastropods in the Smithsonian’s Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Shells is an authoritative exploration of the deep human connection to these molluscan exoskeletons of sea, lake, land, and stream.
Shells have captivated humans from the dawn of the earliest known artwork was made on a shell. As well as containers for food, shells have been used as tools, jewelry, decorations for dwellings, and to bring good luck or to ward off spirits. Many Indigenous peoples have used shells as currency, and in a few places, they still do. This beautifully illustrated book investigates the fascinating scientific and cultural history of shells. It examines everything from pearls—the only gems of animal origin—to how shells’ diverse colors and shapes are formed. And it reveals how shells have inspired artists throughout history, how shells have been used in architecture, and even how shells can be indicators of changing environmental conditions. Also including two essays by shell expert M. G. Harasewych, emeritus curator of gastropods in the Smithsonian’s Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Shells is an authoritative exploration of the deep human connection to these molluscan exoskeletons of sea, lake, land, and stream.
176 pages, Hardcover
Published September 11, 2023
48 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
September 20, 2023
Shells are to me what the Roman Empire is to men
June 4, 2025
Moretzsohn’s research is extensive and thorough so expect that it will feel like reading a long academic paper. But, as a self-proclaimed romantic always looking for the authors internal perspective, I still found it to be a joyous read. It was refreshing to learn about a subject without becoming emotionally arrested with potentially extraneous aspects. Plus I learned a ton about seashells and have grown an even greater appreciation for the animals that inhabit them. And the visuals deepened my interest. Perfect science non-fiction summer read and a nice palate cleanser after a long day of work!
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews