VALUE AND USES OF SHELLS 95 



"set" of young oysters. It is estimated that 4,000,000 

 bushels of oyster shells are used annually for this pur- 

 pose in the waters of New York, Connecticut and Vir- 

 ginia. 



Another peculiar use for shells is in the manufacture 

 of certain special grades of steel. 



Personal adornment is probably the oldest use of shells ; 

 and they are still used for that purpose in many coun- 

 tries. One of the most artistic articles for adornment is 

 the shell cameo. The cameos are carved to represent 

 historical scenes such as the landing of Columbus; or, a 

 medallion of the head of some historical character. The 

 king-conch shell has generally been used for this pur- 

 pose. In earlier times this branch of art attained a high 

 standard of perfection. Recently, however, it has been, 

 very unfortunately, neglected ; and it is to be hoped that 

 this valuable art will soon receive the attention which 

 it deserves. 



Shells have also been used extensively in the decora- 

 tion of buildings. Their principal use in architecture is 

 in the form of mosaic decorations. A splendid example 

 of this artistic work may be seen in the magnificent stair- 

 way of the Chicago Public Library. 



The great variety of colors of the fresh-water shells of 

 the United States make them very valuable material for 

 use in this art. 



There is a firm in Brooklyn, New York, which makes 

 a specialty of pearl inlaying. The art products which 

 they make from shells of various colors are very fancy 

 and attractive. The colored shells of our rivers are very 



