The Shell
A scallop shell, often shown with drops of water, is an emblem of Baptism and also of pilgrims and St. James the Apostle.
What the Shell means
The shell has been an emblem of Baptism since the twelfth century. Once pouring water became the usual way of baptizing, a shell made a handy vessel for it. Baptism may be given by triple immersion or by pouring water three times over the candidate's head (CCC 1239), and a shell with drops of water is a common decoration on baptismal fonts.
The scallop shell is also a badge of pilgrims and the emblem of St. James the Apostle, whose shrine is a famous place of pilgrimage. It is one of the many symbols of the Virgin Mary as well.
LegendSt. Augustine is sometimes shown with a shell because of a story in which a child told him he could sooner empty the ocean with a shell than understand the Trinity.
