Cowrie or cowry (pl. cowries) is the common name for a group of small to large sea snails in the family Cypraeidae. Cowrie shells have held cultural, economic, and ornamental significance in various …

Cowrie shells were traded for goods and services throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, and used as money as early as the 14th century on Africa’s western coast.

Aug 24, 2025 · Cowrie shells, admired for their unique beauty and enduring qualities, are more than mere natural objects. These distinctive shells have captured human fascination across centuries, …

Apr 11, 2025 · Discover the history and significance of cowrie shells as both currency and cultural symbol across Africa, Asia, and modern fashion.

Some of the the rarest and most sought shells are cowrie (also spelled cowry) shells.. These single-shelled mollusks have a zipper-like opening on the bottom and come with dazzling variety of colors …

Cowrie, any of several marine snails of the subclass Prosobranchia (class Gastropoda) comprising the genus Cypraea, family Cypraeidae. The humped, thick shell is beautifully coloured (often speckled) …

Oct 30, 2023 · What is a Cowrie Shell? The word Cowrie or Cowry comes from the Sanskrit word kaparda which means small shell. The term is generally used to classify marine snails and gastropod …

Jan 1, 2025 · Cowrie shells are small, glossy shells that have been used for thousands of years in various cultures. They are often recognized for their beauty and are symbolic in many spiritual …

Discover the rich history and symbolism behind cowrie shells, from their origins in ancient civilizations to their modern meaning & significance.

Discover all the different types of cowrie shells and their amazing history. Learn where they come from, how they were used in ancient times, and what they mean today.