Hand-crafted
Jomsom – Red Jambhala Conch Shell
A conch shell carved with Red Jambhala, the figure associated with abundance.
- A ritual conch, blown at an opening
- Red Jambhala with his mongoose
- Carved along the growth line, so each differs
- Stands on its widest curve
$349.90
Out of stock
An instrument first
A conch is sounded to open a gathering, and anyone may sound one. If you mean to blow it rather than stand it on a shelf, write to us first and we will say what we know about the piece.
No two shells, ever
Each one came out of the sea with its own shape, weight and markings. None of them is a second, and none matches its photograph exactly.
The piece people pick up
A carved shell is the thing visitors reach for and ask about. It is the one object on the shelf that was made to be held.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Red Jambhala?
A figure associated with abundance in Tibetan Buddhism, depicted in several colours of which red is one. He is usually shown holding a mongoose, the traditional emblem of generosity.
What does the conch shell symbolize in Buddhism?
It is one of the eight auspicious symbols: the teaching spoken aloud and carrying outward. A conch opens a ceremony.
Is a conch shell used in Hinduism too?
Yes - the shankha is important in Hindu practice as well, associated with Vishnu, and is sounded in temple ritual. The two traditions use the same object differently.
Can I keep this on a desk rather than an altar?
Of course. Many people keep a carved conch as an object rather than for ritual. If it does go on an altar, the usual courtesy is to keep it off the floor.
Carved through the shell itself
The design is cut into the shell wall, not moulded onto it, so the carving follows the growth lines the animal laid down. That is why no two are the same and why the relief runs deeper in some places than others. The mounting is worked separately in silver or gold-toned metal and fitted where the shell is held.

A conch opens, it does not close
In Tibetan practice the conch is sounded to open a ceremony or call a gathering together, never to end one. It is blown through an opening cut near the tip, with both hands steadying the weight. Anyone may sound one; there is no initiation attached to it.














