Melo Amphora Pearl

[SteveM]

An old acquaintance in Java showed me this pearl from the Melo Amphora, locally known as "Binga". Pearl is 18.8mm perfect round, 51.4 carats. As there is no prior reference at Pearl-Guide to this species, or pearls from this species, I thought a post was in order.

Among volutidae, there are at least 12 species under the genus Melo, including the famous Melo Melo (Bailer Shell), source of some of the rarest and most perfect pearls in the world. Bailer shells average 175-275mm in length, a hefty mantle cavity volume that is known to produce very large, round pearls. In fact, size can be the determinant factor for labs to certify pearls as 'Melo Melo' versus the more conservative, generic 'Melo'.

Melo Amphora is actually the largest of the Melo genus, averaging 350-500mm in length (a foot and a half!). The shells offer an impressive variety for collectors, with a beautiful array of patterns. Composite below is sourced here.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Years ago I picked up a large Melo shell in a shop in Florida. I was surprised how light it was for its size.

 

[SteveM]

Years ago I picked up a large Melo shell in a shop in Florida. I was surprised how light it was for its size.

I have a Melo Broderipii shell, very light as well. This genus appears to have one shell layer, lacking a rough protective exterior (periostracum). Dave @lagoonislandpearls insight would be welcome!

Edit to add an image of my Melo Broderipii shell. Thin, translucent shell layer. Assumption being that gastropods living in benthic (seafloor) muddy sediments do not require a hard/thick outer layer for protection.