golden cowrie

marine snail

Also known as: Cypraea aurantium

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

The golden cowrie is a marine snail belonging to the genus Cypraea within the family Cypraeidae. These snails are found in warm seas, primarily in the Indian and Pacific oceans.12

The shells of cowries are known for their beautiful, glossy, and often speckled coloration. The golden cowrie (C. aurantium) is a larger species, reaching about 10 cm (4 inches) in length. Historically, its shell was worn by royalty in the Pacific Islands. Another notable species, the money cowrie (C. moneta), is smaller (about 2.5 cm or 1 inch) and has been used as currency in parts of Africa and other regions.1

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cowrie
The 10-centimetre (4-inch) golden cowrie (C. aurantium) was traditionally worn by royalty in Pacific Islands, and the money cowrie (C. moneta), a 2.5-centimetre (1-inch) yellow species, has served as currency in Africa and elsewhere.
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The 10-centimetre (4-inch) golden cowrie (C. aurantium) was traditionally worn by royalty in Pacific Islands, and the money cowrie (C. moneta), a 2.5-centimetre (1-inch) yellow species, has served as currency in Africa and elsewhere.
Read More