Coastal waters near MexicoThere are many species of Spondylus, varying considerably in appearance and territorial range. They are related to the scallops, but like the true oysters they cement themselves to rocks, rather than attaching themselves by a byssus. Their key characteristic is that the two parts of their shells are hinged together with a ball and socket type of hinge, rather than a toothed hinge as is more common in other bivalves. The present offering is a saltwater natural pearl with a high dome, a bouton-shape. At its apex the dome is purple, graduating to a band of white, purple again near the base, and shaded white to purple on the underside, undrilled. Weighing approximately 9.22 carats and measuring 11.12 x 10.51mm