When I got my Gorgonian, I acclimated the same as the other stuff. First put bag in tank for about 20-30 minutes. Then I opened the bag, put a little of my water in...20 minutes later, took a little out, put a little more inetc...for about an hour. I wore a glove when I touched mine, and tried to only touch the bottom. Mine came from SWF.com, and was attached to a rock so it was a little easier to handle.
And mine is doing great...had no problems at all.
Sorry tho, I know nothing about clams. Although I did get a scallop. Did the same as above with it too.