Lion's Paw Scallop (also known as Nodipecten)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Nodipecten, Species: N. nodosus · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), used here as a crafted jewelry component featuring a whole shell fragment or valve with fan shape
Species
Nodipecten nodosus
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), used here as a crafted jewelry component featuring a whole shell fragment or valve with fan shape
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches as utilized in this jewelry setting, whereas natural adult specimens typically range from 3 to 6 inches.
Color & Pattern
Natural peachy-pink to reddish base coloration with prominent white, scale-like pustules along the radial ribs. Enhanced and framed by a gold-tone metal jewelry setting featuring a central faceted amber rhinestone and an attached dark iridescent pearl-like bead.
Rarity
Common in its natural habitat, though rare when encountered as a pristine natural beach specimen due to its deep-water preference; artistic integration into vintage jewelry adds unique collectibility.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal waters, coral reefs, and rocky or sandy substrates attached by byssus threads, typically found in warm marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and down to Brazil.
Description
An exquisite crafted piece featuring a sculpted scallop valve set in a vintage brooch or pendant mount. The shell displays distinct radial ribs adorned with characteristic knob-like projections, showcasing a rich textured surface and warm coral-pink hues.
Key Features
Distinguished by strong radial ribs, highly characteristic prominent rounded nodules or knobs along the ribs, and an asymmetrical auricle (ear) structure typical of the Nodipecten genus.
Collector Value
Valued primarily as vintage shell jewelry or sailor's valentine art rather than a raw conchological specimen. Mid-century shell and rhinestone jewelry pieces hold moderate nostalgic and decorative value among collectors.
Condition Notes
Mounted in a manufactured vintage jewelry setting. The visible portion of the shell appears well-preserved with intact structural ribs and natural coloration, graded as Fine condition within the context of art-deco or mid-century shell jewelry.
Interesting Facts
Scallops are among the few bivalves that can actively swim by clapping their valves together to expel water, and they possess dozens of simple blue eyes along the mantle edge to detect motion.
Ecological Role
Acts as an active filter feeder helping to maintain water clarity, serves as prey for various marine carnivores, and provides hard substrate surfaces for encrusting organisms like barnacles and bryozoans.
Similar Species
Pacific Lion's Paw (Nodipecten subnodosus), which is generally larger and found in the Eastern Pacific; distinguished by subtle differences in rib count and node distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Natural whole specimens are rarely found washed ashore alive because they inhabit deeper subtidal waters; dedicated divers or deep-water shellers are most likely to find intact valves.