We all have found memories of going to the beach. A trip to the beach is always exciting. And among all the fun we have, the joy of collecting seashells that the sea leavesbehind is unparalleled.
Seashells have been used for different purposes. While some people collect them as a hobby, some study them and others make jewellery and accessories out of them. The study of mollusc shells is called Conchology. Sometimes, this term is used to refer to seashell collection as a hobby.
Shells were found on the shores and were imported first due to the curiosity around them and then due to the interest evidence by rich merchant princes who became shell collectors. Around the 1850s and 60s shell auctions started and high prices were paid for rare and perfect shells. Over a period of time shell collection declined as shells lost their rarity because of exploitation of their haunts by collectors. However, even today several people collect them as a hobby or for study.
What are Seashells?
Seashells or shells, a hard protective layer that protects sea creatures, mainly molluscs. The shell is normally a part of mollusc's body. It forms its exo-skeleton and is usually composed of calcium carbonate. Apart from mollusc shells, one can also find shells of horseshoe crabs, barnacles, lobsters and sea urchins.Seashells have been used for different purposes. While some people collect them as a hobby, some study them and others make jewellery and accessories out of them. The study of mollusc shells is called Conchology. Sometimes, this term is used to refer to seashell collection as a hobby.
A little History
As a hobby or interest, shell collection reached its peak in England during the late 18th and middle 19th centuries. This was due to the rise in trade activities and discovery of new islands.Shells were found on the shores and were imported first due to the curiosity around them and then due to the interest evidence by rich merchant princes who became shell collectors. Around the 1850s and 60s shell auctions started and high prices were paid for rare and perfect shells. Over a period of time shell collection declined as shells lost their rarity because of exploitation of their haunts by collectors. However, even today several people collect them as a hobby or for study.
