Oak Cone Shells Yellow conus for sale

Textured, Wood-Grained Shells for Naturalistic Collections & Earth-Tone Crafts

$3.00

The Oak Cone Shell, Conus quercinus, is a small to medium-sized species of predatory sea snail whose name is derived from the Latin word for ‘oak tree’. Unlike the boldly striped cones, the Oak Cone is celebrated for its subtle, earthy beauty and distinct texture. Its surface is often finely granulated or nodulose, giving it a unique, slightly rough feel. The color palette is typically a sophisticated mix of browns, creams, and whites, with patterns that remarkably mimic the grain and knots of weathered oak wood. Widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the western Pacific, this species inhabits sandy and rubble-strewn substrates, often burying itself to ambush prey. As a member of the Conidae family, it is a venomous carnivore, employing its harpoon-like radula to hunt marine worms, embodying the quiet, hidden danger of the forest floor in its marine environment.

Creative Ideas

  • Naturalistic Displays: Perfect for creating biotope displays or terrariums that mimic a forest floor or riverbed, where its wood-grain appearance provides natural camouflage.

  • Textural Contrast: In mosaics and inlay work, its granulated texture offers a unique tactile contrast to smoother shells, stones, or glass tiles.

  • Earthy Jewelry: Ideal for rustic or bohemian-style jewelry, where its natural, wood-like patterns complement materials like leather, wood beads, and unpolished stones.

  • Educational Comparison: An excellent educational specimen to contrast with more vibrant cones, demonstrating the role of camouflage and pattern diversity within a single genus.

Each of these shells is a natural masterpiece, sustainably and ethically collected. As a product of nature, every shell will have unique variations in pattern intensity, color saturation, and textural detail. These variations are the signature of a truly individual treasure.


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.

gance this shell brings to your home.

  • The name quercinus directly translates to ‘of the oak tree’ in Latin, a perfect description of its wood-like appearance.

  • The fine granules or nodules on its shell are part of its periostracum, the outer proteinaceous layer that protects the growing shell.

  • Like many cone snails that live on sandy bottoms, Conus quercinus has a well-developed siphon that it uses like a snorkel to ‘smell’ for prey while remaining buried.

  • The patterns on Oak Cones are incredibly variable, with some specimens showing clear ‘knots’ and ‘grain’ while others are more uniformly colored or blotched, making each one a unique piece of natural art.

We are deeply committed to sustainable and ethical practices. All our shells are sourced responsibly—never from live-shelled creatures. We support marine conservation efforts and maintain transparency about our sourcing practices.

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.