The common names of the most prolific species include the ebony, washboard, eel splitter, pimple back, elephant ear, maple leaf, three-ridge pigtoe, pistol grip, and butterfly. Peak commercial fishing is from April through September, when many independent divers operate in the state's rivers, streams, and lakes. A very profitable fishery supported a large shell button industry until World War II when plastic buttons displaced shell buttons. The fishery fell into disorganization and was dormant until the early 1950's. The mother of pearl industry and bead nucleus for the Japanese culture pearl industry have supported the fishery since the 1950's.
Freshwater pearls are a by-product of the shell industry.
Demand for Arkansas freshwater pearls is a function of quality. Quality is determined by the size, color, shape, degree of translucency, texture, ability to match and blend, and luster. Usually, the quality of Arkansas freshwater pearls is as good or better than any other natural freshwater pearl. The possible exceptions are the availability of round pearls and the ability to match colors. Yet, it is thought by some that these exceptions are not detrimental, but that the variety of shapes and colors available are advantageous and are positive selling points.