Update: I have continued to spend at this shop and at last I can at least confirm that my purchased spirit is legitimate. I spent quite a bit on spell items in the hopes of experiencing "the power" and that came true as well. Ironically, the most powerful item was a $12 bead which I got in one of the 50% off sales (now priced $27). Once again confirming to me that more expensive does not mean better or more powerful.