Sunrise shells サンライズシェル

Sunrise shells are shells from a type of small scallop native to the Hawaiian islands. These fabulous, exotic shells are technically known as "Langford's Pecten". The adult shells are typically around 35 mm in size.  Younger shells can range from 15 mm up. Sunrise shells live in waters at a depth of 30-300 feet. 

Natural pairs, or let's say whole shells, can be found but they are pretty rare. The price of Sunrise shells is based upon quality and rarity. How unique is the shell? How unusual is the color? Is it an albino? There are certain "Langford's Pecten" that people refer to as Moonrise shells. Typically, they are darker in color because they lived at a deeper depth of water. Quality can be determined by overall condition: Is the shell free of cracks, chips and holes? Is the shell complete with both wings? At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong, good or bad with Sunrise shells. If you love a particular shell, nothing matters more than that. 

Tip: Keep your sunrise treasure from getting brittle by rubbing a little mineral oil on it from time to time.