Snake Head Purple Top Cowrie Shells - Cypraea Caputserpentis Premium Craft Collection
Authentic Serpent's Head Cowrie Shells | 5 Natural Purple-Topped Specimens | Perfect for Mythological Crafts & Coastal Collections
$7.00
5 Natural Snake Head Purple Top Cowrie Shells per package
3/4-1 inch (19-25 mm) size range
Discover the Mystical Snake Head Purple Top Cowrie Shells
The mesmerizing Snake Head Purple Top Cowrie (Cypraea caputserpentis) is a captivating marine specimen that combines two of nature's most intriguing features: a distinctive serpent-like pattern and a vibrant purple base. These enchanting shells feature a smooth, glossy surface adorned with intricate brown markings that create the unmistakable illusion of a serpent's head, crowned with a striking purple-colored aperture that gives this variety its "Purple Top" designation. Sourced from the crystal-clear waters of the Indo-Pacific region, each shell brings together ancient symbolism and natural artistry in a compact, collectible form.
Perfect for Mythological Projects & Spiritual Collections:
Symbolic Crafting: Snake Head Purple Top Cowries are ideal for projects exploring ancient mythology, spiritual protection, and transformational themes:
Handmade jewelry with protective and wisdom symbolism
Ritual objects and altar decorations for meditation practices
Mythological art projects featuring serpent deities and ocean spirits
Educational displays about cultural symbolism in marine specimens
Shadow box art combining ocean treasures with spiritual themes
Custom decorative pieces for sacred spaces and healing environments
Collector's Fascination: These shells are highly prized by collectors interested in rare color variations and symbolic marine specimens. The combination of the iconic serpent pattern with the rare purple base makes them particularly valuable additions to specialized collections. Each shell's unique pattern intensity and purple hue variation creates a dynamic collection that showcases nature's diversity within a single species.
Cultural Heritage: Snake Head Cowries hold deep significance in numerous coastal cultures worldwide. In many Pacific Island traditions, these shells were believed to embody the wisdom of serpent spirits and were used by healers and spiritual leaders as protective talismans. The rare purple base was often associated with royalty and spiritual authority, making these specimens particularly valuable in ceremonial contexts.
Natural Product Disclaimer:
Unique Ocean Treasures: As authentic marine specimens, each Snake Head Purple Top Cowrie shell features natural variations in pattern clarity, purple intensity, and exact dimensions. Minor surface characteristics from their ocean life journey add to their authentic character and document their natural history. Our photos show representative examples - no two shells are identical in nature's perfect design.
Color Accuracy Note: Shell colors may appear slightly different on various monitors and devices due to lighting and screen settings. The purple base coloration can range from deep violet to lavender depending on the specimen.
Global Shipping: We ship worldwide to over 100 countries! International customers welcome for all shell and coral items.
Satisfaction Guaranteed: Covered by our hassle-free return policy. We offer refunds or store credit - your choice.
Wholesale & Spiritual Project Orders
Planning a museum exhibit, classroom activities, or large cultural project? Contact Seashell Supply today for special pricing on bulk shells. We offer discounted rates for schools, museums, cultural centers, and educational organizations placing orders for 25+ packages.
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.
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.
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.
Purple Rarity: The purple base coloration is actually quite rare in cowrie shells - most specimens have white or tan bases. The purple hue comes from specific mineral deposits in their habitat waters, making these shells natural indicators of unique marine environments.
Pattern Purpose: The serpent's head pattern isn't just decorative - it serves as a defense mechanism. When viewed from above, the pattern creates the illusion of a dangerous snake's face, deterring predators like fish and crabs from attacking the living mollusk.
Living Transformation: When alive, the Snake Head Cowrie's vibrant purple base is completely hidden under a bright orange-red mantle with black spots. The famous purple color only becomes visible after the animal dies and the mantle naturally recedes.
Cultural Currency: In some traditional societies of the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea, Snake Head Cowries with purple bases were used as high-value currency, often exchanged for significant goods like canoes, ceremonial items, and even land rights.
Depth Specialists: These shells are typically found at moderate depths (20-50 feet) on coral reefs with specific water chemistry that produces the purple coloration. They prefer areas with strong currents that bring oxygen-rich water and specific minerals.
Taxonomic Evolution: While traditionally classified as Cypraea caputserpentis, modern DNA analysis has reclassified this species as Monetaria caputserpentis. However, the "purple top" variety remains one of the most sought-after variants among collectors worldwide due to its striking appearance and cultural significance.