What is the star system?
The star system calculates the number of pieces that were handled by Conchology, Inc. in the last 21 years:
| 0 – 5 pieces | 6 stars |
|
| 6 – 10 pieces | 5 stars |
|
| 11 - 25 pieces | 4 stars | |
| 26 - 75 pieces | 3 stars | |
| 76 - 150 pieces | 2 stars | |
| > 150 pieces | 1 star | |
We want to point out that the star system is only very reliable for PHILIPPINE shells only, as we handle very few foreign shells in general. As time goes, the system will become more and more performant.
Collectables
PLEUROTOMARIIDAE
The most exclusive family of shells. Apart from P. beyrichii all of them live deeper than 100 m. They are inhabitants of the continental shelves and slopes. Most collectors possess hirasei, teramachii and westralis. Some PLEUROTOMARIIDAE are fairly variable in colouration. The intensity of colour and size are very important in price determination. Especially the perfectness of the slit and the peristome will play an important role. Real gems rarely occur because slight roughness of slit edges is found in nearly all live taken specimens. Even when they are collected by submarines. Smooth slit edges are therefore to be checked for filing !
PLEUROTOMARIIDAE are subdivided in 3 genera: the genus Pleurotomaria s.s. has be described on a fossil species.
For a list of genera and species:
http://www.marinespecies.org/aphia.php?p=taxdetails&id=196325