Cowries

A classic shell, cowries are known for their vibrant colors and glossy finish. Hawai’i is home to many endemic cowrie species, ranging from common to extremely rare, and from small to large sizes. Unlike other shells, half cowrie shells can also be used in jewelry, as they showcase the shell’s distinctive “lips” (the preferred side facing front) on a more flat surface that lays beautifully against the skin.

At Salt & Water Co., we never keep shells with living creatures inside. Occupied shells are carefully returned to their habitat, and any unused shells or beach treasures are also returned, reflecting our commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. All shells are handpicked with love by me on O’ahu.

Two rows of seashells on a textured surface, with five shells in each row, varying in size and color from light to dark.

Granulated Cowry

A collection of small seashells with brown and purple hues arranged in rows on a textured beige fabric surface.

Snakehead Cowry

Two rows of speckled seashells on beige textured fabric.

Honey Cowry

Four small seashells arranged in a row on a textured cloth background.

Alison’s Cowry

Ten small purple and brown seashells arranged on a beige textured fabric surface.

Tumbled Honey Cowry (Purple)

Six small seashells with pink and beige coloring aligned in a row on a textured beige fabric background.

Tumbled Honey Cowry (Pink)

A variety of seashells arranged in two rows on a textured beige fabric background.

Isabella Cowry

Ten pearl earrings arranged on a textured beige fabric.

Money Cowry

Two turtle shells on a beige textured fabric surface.

Reticulated Cowry

A collection of seven seashells arranged on a textured beige fabric surface.

Checkered Cowry

Two polished seashells on a textured gray fabric surface, one white with red spots and the other orange with white spots.

Gaskoin’s Cowry

Two seashells, one larger and one smaller, resting on a textured beige fabric.

Porous Cowry

Two seashells on a beige textured cloth background, one larger and smooth, the other smaller with a ridged opening.

Levithian Cowry

Three seashells of varying sizes and colors placed in a row on a textured beige fabric surface.

Groove-Toothed Cowry

Back to Shell Chart