The Unique Elegance of Smooth Flat Scallop Seashells

The Unique Beauty of Flat Shells

Shells washed up on the beach often catch our eye with their vibrant colors, intricate spiral patterns, or tall conical shapes. But there's a certain elegance to the understated flat shell as well. Found dotted along the shorelines of tropical destinations like Captiva Island, Florida, these flattened oval shells have a beauty all their own.

What Are Flat Shells?

Flat shells belong to a group of saltwater clams known as scallops. There are over 300 scallop species found across the world, thriving everywhere from the Pacific Northwest to Australia and beyond. The iconic shell that we often associate with scallops has ridged sides and a sharply peaked top shell called the "ear." But some scallop shells lack that quintessential shape.

These smooth, flat oval shells likely come from species in the family Pectinidae, like the Atlantic calico scallop. Their streamlined silhouette allows them to nestle camouflaged on the seafloor among similarly flat sand dollars and starfish. While their shell lacks the drama of more three-dimensional scallops, their subtle palette of ash grey, almond, or chestnut stripes has an understated elegance.

Where To Find Flat Scallop Shells

The best destinations to find these flattened gems washing in with the tide are tropical and subtropical destinations. Their calm, relatively shallow waters with sandy or grassy floors provide ideal habitat for scallops like the Fluted Giant Atlantic Scallop. Places like Captiva and Sanibel Island off Florida's Gulf coast are prime shelling spots.

In areas like these, keep an eye out for flat scallop shells rolling in the surf or nestled among piles of seaweed and other shells. Their smooth shapes blend into the sand, so scan carefully. The shells wash onto shore after the mollusks inside die, leaving their calcified support structures behind. Storms and strong waves help churn up and deposit many shells along the beach.

Highlights and Markings

At first glance, flat scallop shells likely attract less attention than more dramatically shaped shells. But a closer look reveals striking colors and textures.

Their palette includes sandy shades like beige, speckled brown, slate grey and creamy ivory. Some bear subtly painted highlights of rose, lime green, or rich reddish brown. These remarkings result from algae, minerals, or fluids left behind by their one-time occupants.

Under a magnifying glass, some flat shells reveal delicately embossed radial ridges spanning out from the hinge. Others have a wavy flattened shape or thin raised concentric bands circling outwards.

Finding Well-Preserved Specimens

Flat scallop shells run the gamut from completely pristine to fragmentary. To find one in flawless condition, head out early before beachcombers snatch them up. Hunt near piles of seaweed and flotsam washed far up the sand by high tide. Their smooth shapes allow them to tumble and remain largely unscratched by debris.

For the best specimens, search in calm areas without strong waves or rocks that could batter and chip their edges. Carefully exhume shells nestled in sandy spots to check for any cracks or missing pieces. Select ones without bleached patches or tiny perforated sections that indicate damage.

Caring For Your Seashell Collection

To preserve your flat scallop shells' pristine beauty, take special care of them after beachcombing. Gently brush away any clinging sand or debris with a dry soft-bristled brush.

Then soak the shells in fresh water mixed with a mild bleach solution to kill bacteria and prevent yellowing. Place them out to dry thoroughly. Over time natural oils may leach out, leaving ring-shaped tidemarks. Gently clean these away with soapy water and a soft cloth.

Store your shells in climate controlled conditions away from direct light. Nestle them securely in soft tissue paper inside a tightly sealed rigid container to prevent cracking and flaking over time.

The Enduring Allure Of Seashells

Seashells like smooth flat scallops have fascinated beachcombers for ages with their variety of shapes, sculptural swirls, and delicate natural palette. They encapsulate the mystery and untamed beauty of the sea in their intricate calcified architecture. So next time you uncover flats shells tucked among the tideline's treasures, appreciate their subtle splendor and wonders.

FAQs

Where can I find flat scallop shells?

The best places to find flat scallop shells are tropical and subtropical beaches like those on Captiva and Sanibel Islands in Florida. Look for them rolling in surf or nestled among piles of seaweed.

Why are some scallop shells flat?

Flat shells allow certain scallop species like the Atlantic calico scallop to nestle on sandy shallow seafloors camouflaged from predators. Their smooth shape helps them burrow and blend into the sediment.

What causes the colorful markings on flat shells?

The delicate colors and patterns on flat scallop shells come from leftover pigments, minerals, algae, or bodily fluids from the animal that once inhabited it.

How can I preserve the good condition of my flat shells?

Gently clean shells then soak them in diluted bleach. Let them dry fully, then store flat shells in a climate controlled space wrapped in tissue inside a rigid, sealed container.