Merguian Archipelago.—Pearls and shells similar to the Manillas.

Mexico and Panama.—Pearls fair; blacks, grays and fancy colors often fine.

Shells, medium size: nacre has greenish edge.

South Sea Islands.—Pearls usually fine.

Shells generally large, heavy and fine black edge m. of p.

Venezuela.—Pearls, good luster and color—many fine baroques.

Shells: small, beautifully iridescent, but valueless.

Pearls.

Hardness, 3.5-4 Sp. Gr., 1.59-1.62

Composition.