Yes, it related to Venus. You might like to look at F. A. Schilder's article in The Hawaiian Shell News of September, 1965. There is an article titled "The Meaning of Latin Cowry Names". Its URL on-line is http://www.geocities.com/~makuabob/NSN069CY.HTM#E You'll find "...venusta - charming like Venus..." and many other interesting items. Happy reading! makuabob ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com