Grading of Sea Shells

GEM
Shells are without any discernible blemish or flaw. The specimen will be fully adult and of average size.

GEM-
Shells have a very minor flaw or blemish which is both hard to find and in no way detracts from the look of the shell.

FINE++
Shells have a noticeable flaw or blemish which can be seen but which does not detract from the look of the shell.

FINE+
Shells have noticeable flaws, growth lines or blemishes consistent with the species. These shells are still excellent ones for an aesthetically pleasing collection and are considerably cheaper than GEM specimens.

FINE
Shells with a chip, growth line, nacour lift, blemish or other flaw visible. Also, very fresh dead collected but otherwise good specimens are often classed as "Fine".

GOOD/FAIR
Shells are either badly damaged, juvenile or obviously dead. Some species are only available as fair specimens. Suitable for a representative of the species or for a study collection.

Obviously any grading system cannot possibly do justice to all available specimens and most shells will require further description.

Please note that all our shells are beach-collected