Magus Cone Shell
Conus magus - Intricate Patterned Shells
$45.00
The Magus Cone Shell, Conus magus, derives its name from the Latin for ‘magician’ or ‘sorcerer,’ a fitting tribute to its enchanting and cryptic patterns. This small to medium-sized predatory snail is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Japan and northern Australia. It is a common inhabitant of coral reefs, often found hidden under rocks or within sandy and rubble-strewn substrates in subtidal zones.
The shell is characterized by its relatively smooth texture and a conical shape with a slightly rounded shoulder. Its ground color is typically white or pale, overlaid with a series of distinct, triangular or tent-shaped markings. These markings, usually in shades of brown, orange, or black, are often arranged in irregular spiral bands, creating a pattern that seems to shift and change with the light. Like a magician performing a trick, C. magus is a specialist hunter. It is vermivorous, feeding exclusively on marine worms, particularly polychaetes. It uses its venomous, harpoon-like radular tooth to strike and paralyze its prey with precision, a feat of natural chemistry that feels like magic.
Creative Ideas
Pattern Play: Its clear, repetitive tent shapes are perfect for studying natural patterns and for use in graphic design or textile prints.
Beginner’s Favorite: Its relatively common status and beautiful patterns make it an ideal and accessible starting point for new cone shell collectors.
Miniature Art Canvas: Its smaller size is perfect for detailed crafts, like creating tiny fairy garden accessories or intricate mosaics.
Vermivore Example: An excellent specimen to demonstrate the specialized diet and hunting adaptations of worm-eating cone snails.
Each of these shells is a natural masterpiece, sustainably and ethically collected. As a product of nature, every shell will have unique variations in its pattern, coloration, and form. 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 species name magus is Latin for ‘magician,’ referring to the shell’s spellbinding, cryptic patterns.
The venom of Conus magus contains conotoxins specifically tailored to the nervous systems of worms, which is why it is generally considered less dangerous to humans than its fish-eating relatives.
When hunting, it can extend its proboscis (the ‘harpoon gun’) to a length nearly equal to its own shell, allowing it to strike prey from a safe distance.
The color and pattern of the Magus Cone can be highly variable, with some populations having predominantly orange markings while others are mostly brown or black, making each shell a unique ‘spell’.
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.