of
the distorted hexagons. Heretofore these have been considered
valueless, but it is possible that with the increasing vogue of pearls
and the growing desire for oddities, they will be utilized in the
cheaper forms of jewelry.
Creations
similar in construction to pearls are found occasionally in the common
oyster and clam. Though entirely devoid of the pearly texture and
luster, some of them are very perfect in shape and smoothness of skin.
Whether taken from the oyster or clam they are usually called "clam
pearls." The color of the oyster pearl is generally a light drab. The
clam pearls are mostly purplish red or blue, often dark enough to
appear black. Those taken from the oyster are generally round; those
from the clam are more frequently ovoid. Occasionally one or both ends
of the oval are lighter in color, as the Conch pearl is, changing there
to a dark-red or purple. When the color is very dark and the skin
uncommonly good, they have been sold for black pearls by unscrupulous
dealers. They are accounted of little value, though exceptionally large
pieces will sometimes sell for as much as one hundred to a
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