This book is the product of a long-lasting friendship between two enthusiasts in cowries (Cypraeidae), whose personalities could not be more different: A dedicated collector and student, Marco Chiapponi has assembled one of the finest and best-documented collections of this family of seashells over a period of forty years. His observations, personal opinions, funny anecdotes and deeper insight, gained over this period of time, have been assembled into an eclectic mix dedicated to the passion of cowries. The second author is a professional malacologist. He helped with suggestions and editing.