Sea Glass

The beautiful sea glass I collected!!

Sea Glass is found on saltwater shores.  It is recycled by the sea, worn by waves, tumbled naturally by the currents, wave activity and other elements found in the ocean water such as rocks, sand, salt, and other beach debris.  Sea glass is a product of both man and nature.  Jars, bottles, and glass were carelessly discarded and tumbled by the ocean to form these colorful gems of the shore.  The frost and pitting of genuine sea glass is how you tell it was made by nature.  Another name for sea glass is mermaid tears.

Sea glass is used to make jewelry, create art, or simply put in a jar for display.  The very rare colors are orange, red, and yellow.  I was excited to find all three in the same day.

 

I also found this natural heart shaped rock!!

Hermit Crab

While beach-combing, we found this little Hermit Crab who was in the process of abandoning his shell to make home for himself in a larger one or going back into safe hiding when he made eye contact with us!  Either way, he was interesting to watch!!

Hermit Crabs are crustaceans and very social animals that can live 10 years or more.  Some have lived up to 30-70 years!!  They molt several times throughout their lives and grow up to six inches in length. They are a lot of fun to watch as they climb and explore with their habitat mates.  They can make great pets for a classroom as they are low maintenance, non-aggressive and hypoallergenic.  They are also known to make wonderful family pets!