Leopard & Lettered Cone Shells (Conus leopardus & Conus litteratus)
Bold Spotted & Patterned Cone Shells for Crafts & Coastal Decor
$2.50
Some shells whisper, but these two shout with personality. The Leopard Cone and the Lettered Alphabet Cone are the rebels of the reef, covered in patterns so bold and distinct they seem to tell a story. The Leopard Cone (*Conus leopardus*) lives up to its name, with a creamy-white base adorned with dark, leopard-like spots and blotches that give it a wild, untamed look. Its cousin, the Lettered Cone (*Conus litteratus*), is covered in a network of fine, dark lines that resemble an ancient, forgotten script, as if the ocean itself were writing poetry across its surface. Together, they represent nature’s flair for the dramatic and the beautiful.
From the Shore
Finding one of these cones is a true thrill for any beachcomber. The Leopard Cone feels powerful and substantial in your hand, its spots a perfect camouflage for the reef-dwelling hunter it once was. The Lettered Cone is equally captivating, inviting you to trace its lines with your fingertip, trying to decipher the message written in its pattern. Both have a glossy, polished finish and a classic cone shape that is both elegant and formidable. Selecting them is like finding treasure—you look for the sharpest spots, the clearest “letters,” and the story etched into every shell.
Creative Ideas
The bold, graphic patterns of these cones make them perfect for eye-catching and dramatic creations.
Statement Jewelry: Their striking patterns make them ideal for bold pendants and earrings. They can be sliced to reveal stunning cross-sections or used whole for a natural, dramatic look.
Coastal & Bohemian Decor: Group a few together in a bowl or on a shelf for an instant touch of exotic, seaside charm. The Leopard Cone is especially popular for safari and jungle-themed decor.
Mosaic & Inlay Work: Use them as powerful focal points in mosaics, where their distinct patterns can create incredible visual interest and contrast.
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.
Both are living creatures and, like all Cone snails, they are venomous predators. They use a harpoon-like, venom-tipped tooth to hunt fish, worms, or other snails. Always handle with extreme caution and never pick up a live cone shell.
The scientific name litteratus is Latin for “of letters,” a direct reference to the script-like pattern that gives the Lettered Cone its common name and makes it so popular among collectors.
The Leopard Cone is one of the largest species of cone snails, and its powerful venom is a subject of medical research. Scientists study its complex toxins to develop new medicines, proving that even the ocean’s most dangerous hunters can help heal.