That was a splendid posting, Paul!  Most dealers try to obtain and pass
along the best data we can, but quite often what we actually end up with
is in varying degrees inadequate, and in many cases innacurate or nearly
totally fictitious: i have recieved bags of small shells billed as
coming from 35 fathoms, for example, which are obviously from perhaps 2
or 3 meters at the most (i sent them back).  So, when i get a specimen
or a lot with exeptional data that is likely to be very accurate, i
often mention this in the description of the item - it enhances the
value of the corresponding specimens to many collectors.  Unfortunately,
truly satisfying data is currently the exeption rather than the rule -
but one tries!!!

-Ross M.