FISHING FOR Gems
In Mie prefecture’s Masaki Island, for example, there used to be more than 1, 000 persons working in the industry. Now, there are only 40, with many of them old.
As the number of jewel producers declines, related businesses with millennium- much histories are even dwindling.  ,
Over in Kashikojima, an area in Mie known for its crystal jewellery, many of the users are getting on in years.  ,
Younger people there are moving to major cities to get employment as their chances are dwindling.
” The market is steadily shrinking, with fewer people”, said Mr Naoto Yoshimori, president of crystal goldsmith Yoshimori Pearls.  ,
He fears that his third-generation family business will be abandoned by him because his children do n’t seem interested in acquiring the store.  ,
” I have two children. They have moved on in various information”, said Mr Yoshimori.  ,
” I’ll make an effort to keep going a little bit more. If they come home, they do n’t need to work hard. It could be their area company”.