Ecphora (IMAGE) European Association of Geochemistry Caption A 15-million year old fossil gastropod, Ecphora, from the Calvert Cliffs of southern Maryland is depicted. The golden brown color arises from the original shell-binding proteins and pigments preserved in the mineralized shell. Credit Picture is provided courtesy of John Nance. Usage Restrictions Registered journalists License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.