Wart Cowrie Seashells - Cypraea Calpurnus Verrucosus Premium Collector Pair
Authentic Warty Cowrie Shells | 1.25 Inch Textured Specimens | Rare Indo-Pacific Marine Collectibles
$6.00
2 Natural Wart Cowrie Shells per package
1.25 inches (32 mm) typical size
Discover the Unique Wart Cowrie Shells
The extraordinary Wart Cowrie (Cypraea calpurnus verrucosus) is a fascinating marine specimen that defies the typical smooth, porcelain-like appearance of most cowrie shells. Instead, this remarkable shell features a distinctive textured surface covered with small, rounded protuberances that create a warty or bumpy appearance - a unique evolutionary adaptation that makes it instantly recognizable among shell collectors. Sourced from the pristine waters of the Indo-Pacific region, each Wart Cowrie displays a creamy white to pale tan base color adorned with these characteristic raised bumps, creating a tactile treasure that bridges natural history and artistic fascination.
Perfect for Specialized Collections & Textured Displays:
Collector's Curiosity: Wart Cowries are highly prized by serious shell collectors due to their unusual morphology and relative rarity compared to smoother cowrie species. Their distinctive textured surface makes them standout specimens in any marine collection, often becoming conversation pieces that demonstrate the incredible diversity within the cowrie family. Conchologists particularly value these shells for their unique adaptation and the story they tell about evolutionary specialization.
Display Excellence: The substantial size and dramatic texture of Wart Cowries make them ideal for premium display applications:
Glass case specimen displays with descriptive placards about evolutionary adaptations
Executive office desk accessories and conversation-starting paperweights
Educational marine biology exhibits demonstrating shell diversity and adaptation
Mixed media art projects where tactile elements are desired
Meditation spaces and spiritual altars where natural textures enhance sensory experience
Custom shadow box displays combining multiple textured marine specimens
Scientific Significance: This species holds special importance in marine biology due to its unique surface texture, which scientists believe serves multiple purposes including camouflage, predator deterrence, and enhanced grip on rocky substrates. Wart Cowries are often studied by researchers examining evolutionary adaptations in marine mollusks and the relationship between form and function in ocean environments.
Natural Product Disclaimer:
Unique Ocean Treasures: As authentic marine specimens, each Wart Cowrie shell features natural variations in bump density, texture 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.
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/Bulk Purchasing
Need large quantities for your project? Contact Seashell Supply today for special wholesale pricing on any of our shell varieties. We offer competitive bulk rates and custom packaging options for orders of 25+ packages or more. Let us help you find the perfect solution for your creative, educational, or collection needs.
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.
Texture Purpose: The distinctive warty surface isn't just decorative - it serves as excellent camouflage in their natural habitat, helping these shells blend into coral rubble and rocky ocean bottoms where they live, making them nearly invisible to predators.
Living Transformation: When alive, the Wart Cowrie's mantle completely covers the textured shell in vibrant orange tissue with white spots. The famous warty pattern only becomes visible after the animal dies and the mantle naturally recedes, revealing the underlying texture.
Depth Specialists: Unlike many shallow-water cowries, Wart Cowries typically inhabit specific ecological niches on coral reefs at depths of 20-60 feet, where their textured surface helps them maintain grip on vertical rock faces and coral overhangs in strong currents.
Evolutionary Rarity: The warty texture represents a relatively rare evolutionary adaptation among cowries - most species evolved smooth surfaces for different survival strategies, making these shells particularly valuable for studying evolutionary biology.
Cultural Uses: In some traditional Pacific Island cultures, Wart Cowries were used as gaming pieces and counting tools due to their distinctive texture and consistent size, making them easy to handle and identify even with eyes closed.
Growth Patterns: The bumps on Wart Cowries aren't randomly placed - they follow specific growth lines that marine scientists can study to determine the shell's age and environmental conditions during its formation, providing valuable data about ocean health over time.