154 PEARLS AND PEARLING 



$1,795.00 for pearls, and in addition to this sum he re- 

 ceived money for the shells which he gathered, and also 

 some for the slugs, which he found. He used the dip net 

 which is so popular in the Peoria District. These five 

 pearls were found within one-half mile of Mossville, 

 which is ten miles north of Peoria, Illinois. Many of the 

 pearl hunters who worked in the Peoria District found 

 pearls, but Mr. Newton's experience is an exception. 

 Amateur pearl hunters should not base their expectations 

 upon his fortunate experience as it does not represent 

 the average results from pearl hunter's efforts. 



One reason why the occupation of pearl hunting should 

 appeal to trappers is because it can be followed when 

 trapping is out of season. 



In referring to the hunters and trappers and .their 

 especial qualifications for pearl hunting it should be stated 

 that while they are favored in various ways, there are 

 many others who are very successful in the work. Fish- 

 ermen are often very fortunate in the work. They too 

 have valuable river experiences which are a help to them. 

 Every one has an opportunity to find valuable pearls if 

 they hunt for them industriously. 



