These rough, conical, pointed shells (resembling a witch’s hat) are found around the northern coast, from Karratha to Mackay, on exposed intertidal and subtidal areas of coral reefs.
They are harvested from the wild in WA and QLD by collectors walking along reef tops at low tide or free diving. It is a type of Periwinkle and, like other members of this group, has an operculum, the protective flap covering the opening.
Traditionally they were harvested for their shells which have a pearly inner surface used to make buttons and ornaments.