Question 1

What is शंख (Shell)?

Accepted Answer

शंख (Śaṅkha, Shell) is a biogenic material primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) [1]. Its geological origin lies in marine environments, yielding shells with >95% CaCO3, a density of 2.7-2.9 g/cm³, and a Mohs hardness of 3.0-3.5. Traditionally, शंख (Śaṅkha) was crucial in lime production (चूना, Chuna) via calcination for mortar and plaster. As कौड़ी (Kauḍī), smaller shells served as currency and ornamentation.

In Indic heritage architecture, particularly during the Chola and Pandya dynasties, शंख (Śaṅkha) fragments were incorporated into mortar aggregates, enhancing workability and potentially reducing shrinkage. शैल (Śaila) was also used for decorative inlay work (जड़ाऊ काम, Jaṛā'ū Kām) and ornamentation. Coastal regions of India served as primary sources.

Conservation necessitates understanding शंख (Śaṅkha)'s susceptibility to acid rain and salt weathering. Restoration efforts require compatible lime-based mortars. Traditional knowledge systems (शिल्प शास्त्र, Śilpa Śāstra) offer insights into appropriate processing and application techniques for preserving heritage structures.

Question 2

What type of material is शंख (Shell)?

Accepted Answer

शंख (Shell) is classified as Organic Material, Calcium Carbonate, Marine Resource. Key properties include Calcium Carbonate Content: >95%, Density: 2.7-2.9 g/cm³, Hardness: 3.0-3.5 Mohs.

Question 3

Where is शंख (Shell) used?

Accepted Answer

शंख (Shell) is commonly used in Coastal India. It is sourced from Coastal Areas, Seabeds.

Question 4

How is शंख (Shell) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

शंख (Shell) is used for Lime Production, Decorative Elements, Ornamentation, Inlay Work, Mortar Aggregate in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for शंख (Shell)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of शंख (Shell) requires attention to Susceptible to Acid Rain and Requires Careful Cleaning. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	शंख (Shell) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Śaṅkha Shell 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	शंख (Śaṅkha, Shell) is a biogenic material primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) [1]. Its geological origin lies in marine environments, yielding shells with >95% CaCO3, a density of 2.7-2.9 g/cm³, and a Mohs hardness of 3.0-3.5. Traditionally, शंख (Śaṅkha) was crucial in lime production (चूना, Chuna) via calcination for mortar and plaster. As कौड़ी (Kauḍī), smaller shells served as currency and ornamentation. In Indic heritage architecture, particularly during the Chola and Pandya dynasties, शंख (Śaṅkha) fragments were incorporated into mortar aggregates, enhancing workability and potentially reducing shrinkage. शैल (Śaila) was also used for decorative inlay work (जड़ाऊ काम, Jaṛā'ū Kām) and ornamentation. Coastal regions of India served as primary sources. Conservation necessitates understanding शंख (Śaṅkha)'s susceptibility to acid rain and salt weathering. Restoration efforts require compatible lime-based mortars. Traditional knowledge systems (शिल्प शास्त्र, Śilpa Śāstra) offer insights into appropriate processing and application techniques for preserving heritage structures.
Also Known As	Shell Śaṅkha Shell Seashell Conch Shell शंख कौड़ी समुद्री शंख शैल
Tags	Shankha Shell Calcium Carbonate Lime Ornamentation Coastal Construction
Material ID	`INHFMAT-517074165-20-11-25-SK`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/shell
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/shell`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Ancient Medieval
Dynasties	Chola Dynasty Pandya Dynasty

शंख (Shell)

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