This discussion of fading pigments brings to mind a very beautiful, but
quite transient form of Neptunea lyrata decemcostata that dwell off SW
Nova Scotia - German and Browns Banks mostly.  When live, and for a
short time afterwards, they are a positively EXQUISITE  pastel violet
color all over.  This pigment, alas, is quite unstable, and even when
cleaned using water only and kept in the dark, this lovely violet shade
fades to a dull light yellow over time.  Wish i had a photo of this form
in all its glory - it is quite something!  (does anyone know if N.
lyrata s.s. has a corresponding color form, by the way?)
        There are also beautiful turquoise forms of our local Tonicella spp -
ruber and marmoreus.  These also fade quite quickly - but the color can
be preserved to some extent by quickly freeze-drying them, using liquid
nitrogen and a vacuum chamber.
        Regarding pink Macoma balthica, i think Paul is correct: i have had
live-collected pinkos of this species for years, and the color doesn't
fade that quickly.

        Thanks Peggy and Andrew for your observations on Volutes, and Franck
for the note regarding the Hawaiian Harpa.

From the land that got up over 70 F for the first time this year twice
this week!!,
Ross M.