Giant Cassis Cornuta / Horned Helmet Shell
This shell belongs to the Indo-Pacific species Cassis cornuta, commonly known as the Horned Helmet Shell. Across various Pacific islands, it has traditionally been fashioned into a trumpet by removing the spire or apex. It also holds cultural significance for Māori, who use it in the same way as a pūtatara.
At over 25cm long this is a substantial, mature specimen.
The exterior is a lovely warm white, with the characteristic flared lip and pointed spire of a fully grown shell. Turn it over and it opens into a deep, warm apricot that glows in the light. Beautiful as a display object on its own, as a bookend, or as part of a collection of natural curiosities.
Condition: Excellent overall. The shell is clean, solid, and intact with no chips or cracks visible.
Dimensions: 25.5cm long x 21.5cm wide x 22cm high
Pickup available at The Workers Cottage Shop
Usually ready in 2 hours
Shipping
We provide reliable, flat-rate shipping across New Zealand and Australia. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on the size of the largest item in your order.
Our Flat-Rate Tiers:
- Extra Small: For very small items such as textiles and post card sized items.
- Small: Including small ceramics, books, and smaller vases.
- Standard (Medium): For medium vases and mid-sized artworks.
- Large & Heavy: Oversized pieces, including mirrors, large lamps, and larger framed art.
Rural NZ Delivery:
Available for a small additional surcharge, please select this option at check out if you live at a rural address.
Premium Packaging:
We use heavy-duty, professional materials - including double-boxing for fragile items - to ensure your items arrive in perfect condition.
International & Urgent Requests:
We ship worldwide on request. For international quotes or urgent overnight shipping (including same-day Nelson delivery), please email chrissy@theworkerscottage.co.nz.
Return policy
A Life Lived
Please appreciate that when you acquire a piece from The Workers Cottage, you are purchasing an object that has already lived a full life. All of our items are antique or vintage; they are beautifully timeworn and will naturally exhibit signs of age and use. We consider this patina to be a vital part of their unique charm and history.
Transparency & Detail
We take great care to disclose the condition of every piece through detailed photography and descriptions, including any notable imperfections. To ensure you are entirely confident in your purchase, we are happy to provide additional photos or videos upon request—please simply get in touch.
Final Sale Policy
To maintain our curated collection, all sales are final. We do not offer refunds, returns, or exchanges for change of mind. We kindly ask that you shop mindfully and reach out with any queries prior to completing your purchase.
Why buy from us
Unique Discovery: Curated, one-of-a-kind antique and vintage treasures.
Expert Protection: Specialist, break-safe packing using premium materials.
Full Visibility: Fully tracked shipping across New Zealand and Australia.
Boutique Support: Personal, friendly service from our studio in Nelson, NZ.