Ross,
 
By using seeds from our unionids, the resulting pearl is 100% 'mother of
pearl'.  It doesn't have a coated center of metal or plastic.  The
difference here would be similar to silver plate vice sterling.
 
I don't like it, but I guess things happen that way.
 
Unionidude.
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Ross Mayhew <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Wednesday, April 28, 1999 3:02 PM
Subject: Pearl seeds - why use fresh-water clams?
 
 
>Can any one tell me why the Japaneese pearl industry does not just use
>some other material except fresh-water clams, many of which are
>endangered spp now because their habitat is nearly destroyed??  Surely
>there are other materials just as good - natural or synthetic?
>--
>Ross Mayhew:    Schooner Specimen Shells:
Http://www.schnr-specimen-shells.com
>"We Specialize in the Unusual"
>Phone: (902) 876-2241     Snail Mail; P.O Box 20005, RPO Spryfield,
>Halifax, N.S., Canada, B3R 2K9.
>But try to find "something for Everyone"!!
>