John Mawe (1764-1829) was a versatile British naturalist, celebrated for his contributions to both geology and conchology. As a conchologist, he meticulously studied mollusc shells, delving into their intricate forms and taxonomic significance. His monumental work, The Voyager’s Companion or Shell-Collector’s Pilot, arguably marked the first comprehensive guidebook in conchology. Mawe’s passion extended beyond mere classification; he explored the aesthetics, rarity, and historical context of shells. Additionally, he authored The Linnæan System of Conchology, further advancing the field. Notably, Mawe’s interests were not confined to marine shells; he also focused on terrestrial mollusks. His posthumously published magnum opus, The Terrestrial Air-Breathing Mollusks of the United States, remains a valuable resource for malacologists. Mawe’s legacy endures as a bridge between scientific inquiry and the allure of seashells, inspiring generations of collectors and researchers alike.