Shells from Sanibel Island, Florida

A variety of seashells found at the shoreline.

Collecting SeaShells

There are many people including myself who enjoy beach combing the shoreline for seashells. Assorted shapes, sizes, and colors can be found on the shore or just where the water breaks at the shoreline. 

Winds cause waves to stir the ocean bottom and cast the shells onto the beach. Shell collectors have no need to fear shortages. There are trillions of shells lying on beaches worldwide.

Photography and Video Taping
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Another method of collecting shells is to photograph or video tape both the shells and the living organisms that live in them. I am not a photographer, but I am sure you will need special cameras and accessories for both outdoor and indoor shooting. 

The individuals who photograph tend to also catalog their findings. Much of this information is passed on to scientists who are concerned about extinction, environmental pollution, and other types of changes affecting our oceans and beaches.  

Beaded necklace with a variety of seashells.

The collection which I have is placed in jars as a décor on shelving and tables.

One of my many hobbies is beading jewelry and I enjoy using shells in necklaces, bracelets, and pendants. I have not been able to photograph any of my creations, but the photo on the right is a necklace made by another artist. 

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Sanibel Beach in Florida is a popular world-visited shell collectors paradise. One can pick up any shell they wish, but not those with living organisms. There is a financial fine, jail, and or probation. The state of Florida has strict rules governing shell collecting along its beaches. 

There is a museum on Sanibel Island which is worth visiting to get a copy of the rules and to see the different types of shells to help you with identification. They also have shell crafts on display. There are scheduled speakers, special programs, and videos specific to shell collecting and their marine inhabitants. 

Read more about collecting sea shells.

Partial Personal List
​of shells from Sanibel Island:

• Angel wings
• Cut ribbed ork
• Auger
• Broad-ribbed cardita
• Florida Prickly Cookie
• Yellow Prickly Cookie
• Velvet Prickly Cookie
• Florida Cone
• Coquina
• Chalky Buttercup Lucine
• Lettered olive
• Calico Scallop
• Flat zigzag scallop 

Collection Times
​I am inclined to think that the shells on this list are quite common and easily found on the shoreline. 

The best times to gather shells are in the morning and evening at low tide or after a large storm or a hurricane. 

The best times to take photos is during light of morning and evening or sunrise and sunset. There is too much bright light when the sun is shining resulting in reflections and shadows in the photos. 

Olive Shell

Auger Shell

Cockle Shell