The genuine Lakshmi Shank is a sinistral conch shell from the Indian Ocean, and certainly not a sinistral Whelk (Lightning Whelk). A true Valampuri shell is a species in the gastropod genus Turbinella L. The most common species is Turbinella pyrum L. It is important to note that only the rare sinistral variety of Turbinella species is a true Lakshmi Shankh. This kind of shell is very rare in its occurrence. Other right-turning sea snail shells of a similar shape, such as the lightning whelk (Sinistrofulgur perversum), are often mistakenly sold and worshiped in place of the genuine Shank. However, the real Lakshmi Shank has 3 to 7 ridges or plaits on its columella, whereas whelk shells do not show the presence of such plaits on its columella. The best authenticity test is to take an X-ray image of the Valampuri. 
Real Lakshmi Conch (right side spinning) are estimated to occur only one per 100,000 conch shells. The shell of the lightning whelk on the other hand almost always opens on the right (when viewed with the siphonal canal pointing upwards). Valampuries with five plaits or folds in its cavity are known as 'Panchajanya' and are very rare. Completely snow-white Valampuries are also very rare and expensive. Giant Valampuries more than 5 kg are extremely rare in occurrence. Valampuries more than 3 feet in length are reported.

Some of the benefits of dakshinavarti shankh or right hand conch placing this shell at Pooja place or locker brings wealth, good luck and prosperity to the individual and his family. Brings peace to the premises. If kept during a religious gathering, it brings knowledge by evoking divinity. Fill it with water and sprinkle it on a person or in premises. Right Hand Conch Shell is appropriate for bringing wealth and prosperity. This right hand conch shell is popularly known as "dakshin avarti shankh". It also has a close relationship with the goddess lakshmi. If it is kept during a religious gathering, it also brings knowledge by evoking divinity. This particular product that we are selling is a Lightning Whelk and can be used as a decorative piece or can even be placed in places of worship. This is considered a Right Hand Shankh in some places but is not a real Right Hand Shankh.