Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Hawaiian Granulated Cowrie (Cypraea granulata)

Hawaii Granulated Cowrie (Cypraea granulata)
The shell of this quite uncommon cowry reaches on average 22–28 millimetres (0.87–1.1 in) in length, with a maximum size of 49 millimetres (1.9 in) and a minimum size of 15 millimetres (0.59 in).

The shape of the shell is wide oval and appears flattened. The dorsum surface is rough, with a deep longitudinal line in the middle and many protuberances of various sizes. These Cypraea granulate shells are commonly used for making clasps on our Hawaiian shell leis


Hawaiian Granulated Cowrie (Cypraea granulata)
The shinier ones are just a bit less mature than the duller ones. When these shells are very young they are smooth, shiny, and thin. As they get more mature, the bumps form and they starting getting thicker and begin to lose their shine. Both types are very desireable and collectible.


Please visit ShellsHawaii.com to see more collection and learn more about Hawaiian shell jewelry.





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