Andrew Grebneff wrote:
>
> >Perhaps there are just too many people with too much disposable
> >income, willing to pay the premium.  Perhaps if most people whould
> >realize that they are not going to put their shells in a competitive
> >show, and that few people will be able to break even, let alone
> >realize a profit for the ultimate sale of their shells, they would
> >be less willing to pay so much for so little of a difference.  But
> >as one who happily self collects beach shells and fossils, and finds
> >beauty in even commercial grade shells, I am, apparently, in the
> >minority. Perhaps dealers can make lower grades available at
> >discounts without losing money.  It may even help children get into
> >the hobby!
>
> I consider those who only go after gem or near-gem specimens to be
> dilettantes. not at all interested in scientific collecting or value.

Agreed. The majority of my collection was taken fresh dead, many from
octopus middens (your lunch is my specimen) with drill holes. A few days
ago, I happened on a lovely live C. cervus, a live M. fulvescens which
had just started a growth phase, and a 20" horse conch. I learned a bit
from each, and went on my way. They are all still there.

I enjoy my collection.

What I enjoy even more is watching these marvelous creatures in their
native habitat, hunting, laying their eggs, whatever.