I have seen these in many gift/souvenir shops both on the east coast (from
Massachusetts to Florida) & the west coast.  They retail for about $5.00.
 
Jane Heintz
 
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> From: Sylvia S. Edwards <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Shell boxes
> Date: Sunday, May 16, 1999 1:59 PM
>
> We received as a gift from a neighbor, two bivalve shells that are made
in
> the style of a Limoges box.  They are real shells (a Venus clam and a
calico
> scallop) surrounded by gold-colored metal and hinged.  They are more in
the
> style of a compact or change purse, with a snap-together fastening.
>
> We've never seen anything like these before.  One has a sticker on the
> bottom that says "Natura" and "A natural product of the Philippines."
>
> Is anyone familiar with these boxes, and whether they are antiques,
> collectibles, or what?  They are quite beautiful and rather obviously
> hand-crafted.  Since we did our neighbor a very small favor, I would not
> expect an expensive gift.
>
> Sylvia S. Edwards
> Huntsville, Alabama
> [log in to unmask]