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Spiny Oyster Collection

The spiny oyster, scientifically known as Spondylus varius, is a fascinating creature found in the Indo-West Pacific region, particularly in Indonesia

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Mantel of Spiny oyster (Spondylus varius). Indonesia. Indo-West Pacific

Mantel of Spiny oyster (Spondylus varius). Indonesia. Indo-West Pacific

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Thorny oyster shell C019 / 1351

Thorny oyster shell C019 / 1351
Thorny oyster shell. Shell of a thorny oyster (Spondylus regius). This marine bivalve mollusc is found in the Indo-Pacific. This specimen measures 139mm long

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: European thorny oyster shells

European thorny oyster shells
Pair of painted thorny oyster (Spondylus pictorum) shells. This bivalve can be found offshore up to 50 metres in the Mediterranean and Red seas

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: European thorny oyster shells C016 / 6051

European thorny oyster shells C016 / 6051
Pair of European thorny oyster (Spondylus gaederopus) shells

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Painted thorny oyster shells C016 / 6058

Painted thorny oyster shells C016 / 6058
Pair of painted thorny oyster (Spondylus pictorum) shells. This bivalve can be found offshore up to 50 metres in the Mediterranean and Red seas

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Imperial thorny oyster shells C016 / 6061

Imperial thorny oyster shells C016 / 6061
Pair of imperial thorny oyster (Spondylus imperalis) shells. This bivalve can be found in the waters surrounding the Philippines

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Imperial thorny oyster shells C016 / 6050

Imperial thorny oyster shells C016 / 6050
Pair of imperial thorny oyster (Spondylus imperalis) shells. This bivalve can be found in the waters surrounding the Philippines

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Painted thorny oyster shells C016 / 6056

Painted thorny oyster shells C016 / 6056
Pair of painted thorny oyster (Spondylus pictorum) shells. This bivalve can be found offshore up to 50 metres in the Mediterranean and Red seas

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Spondylus imperialis, imperial thorny oyster

Spondylus imperialis, imperial thorny oyster
A pair of imperial thorny oysters (Spondylus imperalis) This bivalve can be found in the waters surrounding the Philippines

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Spondylus pictorum, painted thorny oyster

Spondylus pictorum, painted thorny oyster
A pair of painted thorny oysters (Spondylus pictorum). This bivalve can be found offshore up to 50 metres in the Mediterranean and Red seas

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Spondylus gaederopus, European thorny oyster

Spondylus gaederopus, European thorny oyster
A pair European thorny oysters (Spondylus gaederopus). This thorny bivalve is distributed around northwest coasts of Africa

Background imageSpiny Oyster Collection: Spomdylus imperialis, imperial thorny oyster

Spomdylus imperialis, imperial thorny oyster



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The spiny oyster, scientifically known as Spondylus varius, is a fascinating creature found in the Indo-West Pacific region, particularly in Indonesia. Its unique and vibrant appearance makes it a sought-after gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. One of the most striking features of the spiny oyster is its mantel, which showcases an array of captivating colors. From deep reds to bright oranges and even shades of purple, these shells are truly a sight to behold. The thorny oyster shell C019 / 1351 exemplifies this beauty with its intricate patterns and mesmerizing hues. In addition to their visual appeal, European thorny oyster shells also hold historical significance. These ancient treasures have been discovered throughout Europe and serve as reminders of our rich maritime heritage. Their presence evokes images of seafaring adventures and tales from distant shores. For those seeking a more artistic touch, painted thorny oyster shells provide endless possibilities. With their smooth surfaces acting as canvases, artists can transform these natural wonders into stunning works of art. The C016 / 6058 variant stands out with its delicate brushstrokes that bring life to the shell's surface. Among the various species within the Spondylus genus is the imperial thorny oyster (Spondylus imperialis). This majestic creature boasts regal shades of purple and pink on its mantle, making it highly coveted by collectors worldwide. Similarly enchanting is the Spondylus gaederopus or European thorny oyster - a testament to nature's ability to create awe-inspiring designs. Another member worth mentioning is the painted thorny oyster (Spondylus pictorum), renowned for its vibrant palette reminiscent of an artist's palette at work. Each stroke seems purposeful as if carefully crafted by Mother Nature herself. Whether you're drawn to their vivid colors or captivated by their historical significance, spiny oysters offer a glimpse into the wonders of our natural world.