# Shells: A Natural and Cultural History - Hardcover

by **Fabio Moretzsohn** (Author), **M. G. Harasewych** (Contribution by)

**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 time: 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.

### Author Biography

**Fabio Moretzsohn** (1964-2020) was visiting assistant professor in the Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He is coauthor of _Encyclopedia of Texas Seashells_ and, with M. G. Harasewych, _The Book of Shells_.

**Number of Pages:** 176

**Dimensions:** 0.79 x 8.27 x 6.14 IN

**Illustrated:** Yes

**Publication Date:** September 11, 2023

## Details

- **Price:** 30.0 USD
- **Vendor:** Books by splitShops
- **Type:** Books
- **Tags:** Books by splitShops, Shopify Collective

## Variants

| Variant | Price | Available |
|---------|-------|-----------|
| Default Title | 30.00 USD | In stock |

## Images

- Shells: A Natural and Cultural History - Hardcover

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