Pearling became a significant trade in Tennessee, as the pearls found within the freshwater mussels gained prominence for their distinctiveness. As they became the must-have fashion item, river communities witnessed a surge in pearling activities and more individuals ventured into the waters in pursuit of these natural treasures. The industry not only provided a source of income for many but also became an integral part of Tennessee’s cultural identity. The period from 1895 to 1936 was the beginning of Tennessee’s prominence as one of the nation’s leading states in pearl marketing and production.
Among the various uses of freshwater mussel pearls, one notable application was in the creation of buttons from the shell of the mussel and mother of pearl layer lining found inside it. The durable and aesthetically pleasing nature of these pearls made them an ideal choice for adorning garments and this fashion statement was at its height in the early 1900s. The pearling industry met the demands of fashion, supplying a substantial quantity of buttons made from these shimmering gems, without thought of the rivers, these creatures, or the impact their fashion trend was having.
The repercussions of the pearling industry’s unchecked harvesting practices emphasize the importance of conservation efforts. Organizations and initiatives have since emerged to protect and restore Tennessee’s freshwater mussel populations and their habitats, many mussel species are now considered endangered or threatened; some have populations limited to only one or two sites.
