Eastern Oyster Shell / Modern Oyster Shell (Non-Fossil)
Crassostrea virginica (Eastern Oyster) • Subfossil to Modern Shell (Invertebrate Mollusk Shell)
Geological Period
Holocene / Anthropocene (Recent to Very Late Quaternary)
Estimated Age
0 to 0.01 million years (Modern or Recent/Subfossil)
Preservation Type
Original Aragonite/Calcite Shell Material (Unfossilized or Subfossil shell)
Condition Assessment
Good ( intact articulate hinge, clear internal purple muscle scars, light exterior wear)
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Mollusca, Class Bivalvia, Order Ostreida, Family Ostreidae, Genus Crassostrea
Morphological Description
Elongated, asymmetrical bivalve shell with two distinct valves attached near the hinge area. Inner shell surface is smooth, pearly white to ivory, featuring prominent dark purple-brown adductor muscle scars on both valves. The exterior surface is rough, foliated, and lamellar with irregular growth lines.
Rock Matrix
No geological rock matrix attached; minor organic/mud staining around the hinge area
Formation & Location
Coastal estuarine or marine environments, highly common along the Atlantic coast of North America
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 7-10 cm in length, consistent with typical adult Crassostrea virginica specimens
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$1 - $5 USD (Modern biological specimen / shell craft item)
Auction Estimate
$0 - $5 USD (Not suitable for formal natural history auctions)
Rarity Assessment
Common (Extremely abundant modern shell species found extensively along coastlines)
Scientific Significance
Low scientific importance as a fossil specimen due to its modern/recent nature; serves as a good educational example of extant bivalve morphology and shell structure.
Preparation Recommendations
Clean gently with warm water and soft brush to remove dirt; dry thoroughly and store in a dry environment.
Notable Features
Distinctive purple adductor muscle scar visible on both matching valves with intact hinge area.