Well the clam is a olive/brown/khaki swirl that has a muted dark feel, and not the more striking colors of blue and such that maximas are normally known for. That is why I hesitated, when the oringal owner ID it as a Squamosa. Other than the dark color, which in person looks very normal, what makes you think it looks sickly. As for my lighting, MH. I moved the clam close to the glass, for picture purpose, and it probably was sitting in a dimly lit area for the picture only. I am getting good reaction to shadows and light, better extension of the mantle than in the picture.