Jeweled Scallop Pendant / Gemstone Scallop Assembly
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Pectinida, Family: Pectinidae, Genus: Argopecten, Species: Argopecten irradians · Pectinidae (Scallop family) · Bivalve, modified art/jewelry piece incorporating a small whole valve and a dark pearl
Species
Likely Argopecten irradians (Bay Scallop) or Pecten ziczac, modified for jewelry
Shell Type
Bivalve, modified art/jewelry piece incorporating a small whole valve and a dark pearl
Family
Pectinidae (Scallop family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches for the shell component, typical of small juvenile or specific dwarf scallop species.
Color & Pattern
Natural pinkish-brown radiating ribs on the visible scallop valve, accented by a bezel-set amber-colored gemstone and topped with a dark iridescent grey or black pearl.
Rarity
Common as a species, but Extremely Rare as this specific art-jewel configuration.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically associated with seagrass beds and sandy substrates where bay scallops thrive.
Geographic Range
Coastal waters of the Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, though as a crafted jewelry item its exact provenance is artistic.
Description
An exquisite miniature scallop shell valve set within a metallic bezel, enhanced by a centrally mounted rectangular amber gemstone and surmounted by a lustrous dark pearl. The radial ribs of the scallop are clearly visible beneath the setting.
Key Features
Distinctive auricles (wings) of the bivalve hinge, prominent radial ribs, combined with custom jewelry mountings including a faceted gemstone and a spherical pearl.
Collector Value
Valued more as artisan jewelry or novelty art than as a pure conchological specimen, though highly desirable for marine-themed jewelry collectors.
Condition Notes
Mint/Modified condition; the natural shell has been incorporated into a manufactured jewelry pendant or decorative art piece, showing polished metal rims and secure gemstone settings.
Interesting Facts
Scallops are among the few bivalves that can swim actively by clapping their valves together. They also possess dozens of simple blue eyes along the mantle edge.
Ecological Role
Filter feeders that improve water quality, serving as an important food source for various marine predators including rays, sea stars, and gulls.
Similar Species
Other small Pectinidae species such as Argopecten gibbus (Calico Scallop) or Nodipecten species.
Beach Finding Tips
Bay scallops are typically found by waders in shallow seagrass beds during open harvesting seasons or washed ashore along protected bays.