The very first shell I ever found, the triton has held a special place in my collection ever since. Hawaiʻi is home to several kinds, including Beu’s triton, found nowhere else.
From Nicobar’s and hairy tritons to the rarer purple-gyre, select a triton for a custom order, or explore triton shell jewelry.
Explore triton shell types
Nicobar’s
Hairy
Rare finds
Purple-Gyre
Beu’s
How to identify a triton shell
Tritons have thick, sculpted shells with raised ridges that circle the whorls at intervals, giving them a knobby, almost carved texture. The opening is often lined with small teeth.
Where are triton shells found?
Tritons live among the rocks and reefs around Hawaiʻi, often hidden in crevices. Every triton here is one I found freediving or beachcombing on Oʻahu.
Triton shell jewelry
Their sculpted texture makes tritons a standout as a single drop earring or charm, or paired with cone shells and pearls. Each piece is finished in 14k gold-filled, with select pieces and custom orders in sterling silver.
Collected with care: Only empty shells are kept. Occupied shells go back to their habitat, and any shells or beach treasures not used are returned too. Read more about ethical shelling in the Hawaiian Shell Guide.
Triton shell questions
What colors are triton shells?
Triton shells range from creamy white and soft brown to warm orange and purple, often with bands, spots or speckles. Each shell has its own markings.
Can I wear triton shell jewelry in the ocean?
Yes, for a swim. Gold-filled and sterling silver handle the ocean well, and a rinse in fresh water afterward, then drying it well, keeps the shell at its best. Pieces with pearls can swim too; just rinse them in fresh water afterward. The pearl and shell care guide has more.
Can I choose a specific triton shell for a custom piece?
Yes. Name a Nicobar’s, hairy or purple-gyre triton in your custom order, or email me for help choosing. What is available depends on my recent dives.
