Modern Frog Shell / Murex Gastropod Shell (Non-Fossil/Recent Shell)
cf. Bursa granularis (Granular Frog Shell) or a related Muricid/Bursid species • Body specimen / Recent seashell (Invertebrate - Gastropoda). Note: This is a modern, extant marine seashell rather than a mineralized fossil.
Geological Period
Holocene / Recent (Modern era)
Estimated Age
0 to a few decades old (Recent/Modern)
Preservation Type
Unfossilized original biogenic calcium carbonate (aragonite/calcite) shell material with original organic color patterns intact; no mineral replacement, permineralization, or matrix encrustation present.
Condition Assessment
Very Good (as a modern shell specimen). Complete shell structure, intact spire, minimal beach erosion, retaining bright original periostracum/color patterning.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Neogastropoda, Family Bursidae or Muricidae
Morphological Description
Conical to fusiform spiraled gastropod shell showing prominent nodular ornamentation, raised varices, axial ridges, and dark brown to reddish pigmentation mottling over an off-white calcium carbonate aragonite background. Apex is pointed with intact early whorls.
Rock Matrix
None (free-standing modern seashell resting on a decorative surface). No surrounding matrix or fossiliferous rock layer.
Formation & Location
Indo-Pacific or Caribbean marine intertidal/subtidal coastal environments; commonly found washed ashore on sandy beaches or collected from coral reef environments.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 4 cm to 7 cm in length, typical for medium-sized adult Bursid/Muricid gastropods.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$2 - $10 USD (as a decorative shell/sea life collection item)
Auction Estimate
$5 - $15 USD (in bulk or decorative shell lots)
Rarity Assessment
Common (frequently found in tropical marine waters worldwide and widespread in decorative shell trade)
Scientific Significance
Low paleontological significance as it is an extant, non-fossil shell; high biological interest for studying modern marine gastropod shell morphology, growth incremental lines, and modern coastal mollusk biodiversity.
Preparation Recommendations
Store in a dry location out of direct sunlight to prevent fading of natural brown color patterns. Keep away from acidic cleaning solutions or vinegar which dissolve calcium carbonate shells.
Notable Features
Retention of vivid dark brown mottling and crisp nodular surface texture characteristic of extant frog shells (Bursidae) or murex snails (Muricidae).