We asked people which shells they think are, in general, the most colorful. Three of the most colorful seashells in the world are the Scallop Shell, Chambered Nautilus, and Glory of the Sea Cone. Each dazzles with vibrant hues, intricate patterns, and natural iridescence that make them prized by collectors and jewelers alike.

Here’s a closer look at these stunning marine masterpieces:

1. Scallop Shell (Family: Pectinidae)

• Color Range: White, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and even deep red.
• Why It’s Special: Scallops are known for their fan-like shape and radial ridges, often displaying symmetrical patterns and vivid coloration influenced by genetics and environment.
• Notable Varieties:

• Lion’s Paw Scallop: Deep red with bold ridges.
• Calico Scallop: Speckled with pink and orange.
• Japanese Scallop: Often iridescent with pastel tones.

2. Chambered Nautilus (Nautilidae)

• Color Range: Creamy white with iridescent blues, greens, and silvers inside.
• Why It’s Special: Famous for its perfect spiral structure based on the Fibonacci sequence, the Nautilus shell is a marvel of natural engineering.
• Unique Features:

• 36 internal chambers used for buoyancy.
• Mother-of-pearl interior prized in jewelry.
• Often referred to as a “living fossil” due to its ancient lineage.

3. Glory of the Sea Cone (Conus gloriamaris)

• Color Range: Rich golden brown with white zigzag patterns.
• Why It’s Special: Once considered the rarest and most valuable shell in the world, this cone shell is still highly sought after for its dramatic coloration and rarity.
• Habitat: Found near the Solomon Islands, Philippines, and Fiji.
• Fun Fact: Its name reflects its regal appearance and historical prestige among collectors.

Honorable Mentions. These shells are honorable because they are three of the shells I voted for that didn't win. But I think they are really colorful species of seashell.

The Queen Mitre Shell

The Green Urchin Shell

The Philipeans Deep Sea Urchin

These shells aren’t just beautiful—they’re steeped in history, mythology, and marine wonder. Which shell species do you think are the most colorful? Let us know!