Conch Sea shell - Cypraecassis rufa (No reserve price)

Great Seashell Marina "Cypraecassis rufa" (16 cm)

Scientific name: Cypraecassis rufa (Linnaeus, 1758)
Common name: bull-mouth cowrie / cameo shell. Family: Cassidae

Origin: Indian Ocean / Indo-Pacific region

Dimensions:
Length: 16 cm
Width: 14 cm
Height: 11 cm
Weight: 666 g

Detailed description: Magnificent large specimen of Cypraecassis rufa, a species of marine gastropod mollusk highly prized by shell collectors (Wunderkammer) as well as by enthusiasts of nautical and high-end decoration. This piece stands out for its heavy, solid, globular structure, displaying excellent nodular relief on its upper part. The dorsal surface shows an attractive mottled pattern with bands in brown, cream, and reddish tones. The broad parietal shield and the characteristic lip of the aperture are presented with a striking and bright intense orange/orange tone, preserving a fantastic natural lustre. It presents the small "teeth" along the edge of the aperture in an ideal way. Historically known as the "cameo shell", because its various internal chromatic layers are the preferred material for Italian artisans to carve delicate jewelry.

Conservation status: Very good, clean, natural structure intact and without noticeable damage to the lip or apex; a small flaking at the tip of one of the spines."}