Coquillas

Coquillas is a term used in Spanish-speaking regions with several related meanings. In its most common sense, coquillas refers to small shells or shell fragments, typically those found on beaches. The word is derived from the French coquille, meaning shell, with the Spanish diminutive form coquilla giving rise to coquillas as a plural.

In cultural and artisanal contexts, coquillas are valued for their color, shape, and patterns. They are collected for decorative purposes, used in jewelry, inlays, mosaics, and traditional crafts, and sometimes incorporated into religious or ceremonial objects. The practice of shell collecting and use varies by region, and the conservation of shell-bearing mollusks is a consideration in areas where coquillas are abundant.

Ecologically, coquillas represent the exterior covers of marine mollusks. Their presence on beaches and coastal ecosystems reflects the local biodiversity and sediment conditions. Responsible harvesting and regulations aim to balance cultural or economic uses with the protection of mollusk populations and beach environments.

Geographically, the name Coquillas appears as a toponym in several Spanish-speaking regions. Such place names commonly reflect historical or present coastal associations, including the presence of shells or shell deposits in the area.

See also: concha, coquilla, shell-related crafts.