The South African Turban Shell & Shiva Shell

The Turbinidae family includes the shells known commonly as turban shells. The South African turban (Turbo Sarmaticus) is one of the most appreciated and sought after by shell enthusiasts. This is especially true once polished to reveal the attractive nacre of the inner layer.

Found on the shores of South Africa and the Philippines. This particular species grows to approximately 3 inches.It is the unmistakable shell markings and coloration that make these shells a prized possession among collectors. The silvery white mother-of-pearl deposits, combined with its natural rusty brown color make the outer shell patterns fascinating and the perfect inlay material for jewelry items.

Shiva shell, also known as Shiva Eye or Pacific Cat's Eye, is the protective covering at the opening of the Turban snail shell (Turbo Smaragdus). Towards the end of the snail’s natural life this protective covering (known as the operculum) detaches and sinks to the seabed.

On one side of the Shiva shell is a beautiful spiral. The exact shape of the spiral is unique from shell to shell. The color varies from beige to deep green, depending on the sea snail's diet, while the background always remains pearly white.

On the reverse side of the spiral is a mesh of colors that resemble an eye, which is where the shell’s alternate name derives from.The Eye of Shiva is the third eye in the middle of the forehead of the Hindu God Shiva. Representing wisdom it is thought to have the ability to look beyond the obvious. It symbolizes the creation, preservation and destruction of everything, the flow of life, the constant change of the universe, spiritual knowledge and creative visualization.