Current Value
A true Dakshinavarthy shell is sold on weight basis. The present market cost in India falls in the range of Rs. 1500/- to Rs. 3500/- per gram. However, there have been some reports that shell is also sold up to Rs. 10000/- per gram. Based upon a market search of a number of genuine sellers, the price was average of Indian Rs. 6,000 per gram, depending on size, type, and quality, price can be much higher. For example a medium size Valampuri weighs about 160 grams x Rs 6,000 = Rs. 960,000 (US$ 20,528) minimum. More over, Valampuris of the smooth "milk" variety sell for over Rs. 20,000 per gram, and weight about 150-350 grams. Tiny dwarf Valampuris small enough to wear as a pendant are very rare and price is negotiable when available. Regarding value, note the comparison, a Valampuri costing $20,000 would only purchase a 1.50-carat (300 mg) diamond. So the legendary cost of Valampuri, as compared to a diamond, is actually quite low, in spite of demand always far exceeding supply.
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