xii Introduction. 
and some of the magical powers associated with shells 
were also transferred to pearls. 
Pearl-like bodies are obtained from a considerable 
number of shells in addition to those of the pearl oyster ; 
and it is significant that a special cultural importance 
came to be attached to most, if not all of them. 
Of these the Abalone (Hadzo/zs), the classical designa- 
tion of which is “ Ear of Venus,” is used for ornament and 
currency. Its resemblance to a human ear and the serial 
arrangement of the perforations near its margin suggest 
the possibility that the custom of piercing the helix in a 
linear series may have some connexion with this likeness. 
It is all the more suggestive when this method of 
perforation is found in association with the use of an ear- 
pendant made of /faé/zotis shell.' Stromdus gigas (the 
common conch), which is used as a ceremonial trumpet, 
produces pink pearls ; and 7urdinella pyrum (the Indian 
chank), which is the trumpet and libation-vessel of India, 
Thibet and China, has pink and pale red pearls. Another 
of this series is 7rtdacna gigas (Giant Clam), which is 
used in Oceania as well as in the West Indies for 
making axes and other tools, and in certain Christian 
churches in Europe as receptacles for ‘ holy water.’ Venus 
mercenaria (Quahog or Hard Clam) is used for making 
shell money “Wampum” in North America. MVaunétlus 
pompilius is cut up and used for ornament and as eyes 
for Torres Straits mummies. It is also used asa drinking 
vessel in India and elsewhere. 
If one asks the question how did these remarkable 
qualities come to be attributed to certain shells, the answer 
is plainly given by the collection of data brought together 
by Mr. Jackson. 
The whole of the complex shell-cult seems to have 
* ** Handbook of American Indians,” Vol. I, p. 17. 
