In an attempt to fill a void in the archaeological literature, the author summarizes the structure of shell, the factors that affect its preservation, and the categories of information inherent in shell deposits. The main section of the article reports the results of laboratory experiments performed on specimens of archaeologically recovered <i>Rangia cuneata</i> (Gray) clam shells. Various consolidants were tested to see which ones under certain conditions of applications best prevented further deterioration and loss of information. A descriptive system for visually rating the deterioration of shells is also given. -- AATA