Since there seems to be a lull in "major topics" at the moment, i will toss
this into the pot and see if anyone takes a bite or two!

        Almost all shell dealers have a "speciality" or two - something that sets them
apart from other dealers: something they are known for in particular, which
helps keep their customers satisfied and coming back regularly. This can of
course be simply a particular family or genus, but more often it is something
else - top-notch data, shells from unusual localities, especially speedy
service, or particulary friendly service, where "the customer is King".  Perhaps
they go after the upper-end, rare species, or perhaps they always try to have a
wide variety of the more common species in stock. Others may specialize in
splendid catalogues (Femorale and Guido come to mind in this catagory!), while
others may strive to maintain an easy-to-navigate, well-imaged website with very
good descriptions of their items: the list of possibilities is nearly endless.

        So, what i am asking is "What sets particular dealers apart from the pack (in a
positive sense, that is!!)?"  This can be answered by dealers, explaining what
they specialize in, and what they try to do or offer particulary well - or it
could be answered by customers, explaining what they particularly like about a
particular dealer that they regularly patronize.

        I hope this is not too "commercial" a topic for this list, but shell dealers
are definitely a part of the Conchological Community, and so long as the replies
are kept to the "fireside chat" level - without overt advertising, then i see no
harm in taking a look at what makes various dealers "special" in their own ways!!

From the Land of Colorful Maple-leaves;
-Ross.
--
Ross Mayhew: Schooner Specimen Shells: Http://www.schnr-specimen-shells.com
"We Specialize in the Unusual"
Phone: (902) 876-2241; Fax: (902) - 479 - 1863
But try to find "something for Everyone"!!
Snail Mail: 349 Herring Cove Rd, P.O Box 20005, Halifax, N.S., Canada, B3R 2K9.