Cowrie shells have a long, layered history that stretches far beyond their recent resurgence in home decor. Long before they ...

“Before you do anything else,” curator Chris Meyer said the minute I arrived at the National Museum of Natural History’s Invertebrate Zoology collection, “you have to vote for beauty.” He led me ...

Have you ever wondered about the true nature of cowrie shells? Where do they come from? Are they simply shells, or is there more to their story? You may have a vague understanding that cowries were ...

Shells are the true gems of the ocean and a beachcomber’s most prized find. Although, commonly used today to adorn necklaces, earrings and bracelets, or to decorate the home, shells and their ...

One of the most important Hindu holidays, Diwali, represents prosperity and light. On this day, worshipping Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi brings luck, prosperity, and wealth. Among the many ...

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is not just about diyas and sweets - it’s also a time to invite prosperity and divine blessings into your home. One special ritual gaining attention is buying and ...

Small seashells have many characteristics that make them ideal monetary objects. They are durable, portable, and difficult to imitate. One species of cowrie shell is known as the money shell because ...