Gold and Silver Mouth Turban Shells (Turbo Chrysostomus & Argyrostoma)
Turban Shells with Metallic Apertures for Luxurious Crafts & Elegant Decor
$1.50
This is the shell that proves the greatest treasures are the ones you have to look for. On the outside, the Gold and Silver Mouth Turbans are the picture of humility. They are often stout, conical shells with a rough, algae-covered exterior, blending in perfectly with the rocky reefs they call home. They look like simple, weathered stones. But turn one over, and you unlock a secret. The aperture, or the “mouth” of the shell, is a breathtaking revelation. One species, the Gold Mouth (*Turbo chrysostomus*), reveals a lustrous, deep gold, like a glimpse of molten treasure. The other, the Silver Mouth (*Turbo argyrostoma*), shines with a brilliant, pearlescent silver, like polished moonlight. They are the ocean’s lockets, keeping their most precious metals hidden from the world until the moment of discovery.
From the Shore
Finding a Gold or Silver Mouth Turban is a moment of pure, unexpected joy. You pick up what looks like a plain, heavy rock, and when you turn it over, it’s like striking gold. The contrast is startling and beautiful. The exterior is coarse and natural, but the interior is perfectly smooth and impossibly bright. You can’t help but run your finger over the lip of the shell, feeling the transition from the rough outer layer to the slick, metallic nacre within. Selecting them is a hunt for the most perfect “locket”—you look for a clean, unbroken shell with the most vibrant, unblemished gold or silver inside, a perfect, circular window into a treasure chest.
Creative Ideas
The brilliant interior of these shells makes them perfect for projects where a touch of hidden luxury is key.
Revealing Jewelry: This is their ultimate calling. These shells are perfect for pendants and earrings where the design intentionally showcases the interior. Imagine a wire-wrapped setting that holds the shell like a treasure, allowing the gold or silver mouth to be the star of the piece.
Elegant Tablescapes: Place a collection of these in a shallow, clear glass bowl or on a mirrored tray. The goal is to display them “mouth-up” so their brilliant interiors catch the light, creating a stunning centerpiece that looks like a pile of scattered jewels.
High-End Inlay Work: For the skilled woodworker or crafter, the aperture of these shells is a precious material. Carefully cut and polished, the gold or silver nacre can be inlaid into a box lid, a knife handle, or a piece of furniture to create a stunning, natural accent.
Each of these shells is a hidden treasure, sustainably and ethically collected. They are crafted from natural Gold Mouth Turbans (*Turbo chrysostomus*) and Silver Mouth Turbans (*Turbo argyrostoma*), celebrated for their rough exterior and their brilliantly colored, metallic interior. Please remember that as a natural product, every shell will have its own unique variations in shape, size, exterior texture, and the beautiful vibrancy of its gold or silver mouth. These are the beautiful marks of a treasure, unlocked by the sea.
Each of these shells is a piece of the ocean’s art gallery, sustainably and ethically collected. They are crafted from natural Spotted Marbled Cone snails (Conus ebraeus), celebrated for their unique, dappled patterns and elegant conical form. Please remember that as a natural product, every shell will have its own unique variations in shape, size, and the beautiful patterns on its surface. These are the marks of a treasure, individually painted by the sea.
Every seashell is a gift from the ocean, and I pack each one with the care it deserves, ensuring its safe journey to you.
Preparation Time: I will carefully wrap your seashells in recycled paper and twine within 1-3 business days, making it feel like a personal gift from the sea.
Shipping Method: I use reliable standard shipping and will provide you with a tracking number, so you can follow your shell’s journey.
International Orders: For shells traveling across oceans, please allow a little extra time. Sometimes customs checks can extend their journey.
The ocean never creates two identical shells, making the one you receive truly one-of-a-kind.
Damaged in Transit: If your shell is damaged during its journey, please contact me within 24 hours of receipt with a photo. I will immediately send a replacement or issue a full refund.
Not as Described: I do my best to represent each shell accurately through photos and descriptions. If you feel your shell is significantly different from what was described, please contact me within 7 days, and we will find a thoughtful solution.
A Note on “Change of Mind”: As each shell is a natural, unique item, I cannot accept returns or exchanges due to a “change of mind.” Please review the photos and dimensions carefully to ensure it’s the perfect “ocean companion” for you.
The scientific names tell you exactly what to look for! Chrysostomus comes from the Greek khrusos (gold) and stoma (mouth), meaning “gold mouth.” Argyrostoma comes from arguros (silver) and stoma (mouth), meaning “silver mouth.”
The brilliant gold and silver colors are a form of nacre, or mother-of-pearl. The specific iridescent and metallic qualities are created by the microscopic structure of the layers and the specific pigments the mollusk secretes.
Like other members of the Turbo family, these snails have a thick, shelly operculum, or “trap door.” This operculum, often called a “cat’s eye” shell, is a beautiful, rounded piece that can sometimes have hints of the same gold or silver coloring, making it a treasure in its own right.