✦ Gemstones ✦
White Mother Of Pearl
Natural white shell, commonly known as "mother of pearl," is an organic gemstone that has been used in jewelry, decorative art, and cultural symbolism for centuries. Found in mollusc shells, primarily in oysters and abalone, natural white shell is prized for its iridescent sheen and unique beauty.
This organic substance forms naturally within the shells of various marine creatures as part of their defense mechanism. Today, it is widely used not only for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its symbolism and historical significance.
Mother of pearl is primarily composed of nacre, a protective layer of material produced by mollusks such as oysters and mussels. Nacre is composed of calcium carbonate crystals arranged in a layered structure.
These microscopic layers reflect and refract light, creating the signature rainbow effect that makes white shells so fascinating. The material is durable but relatively soft compared to gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of approximately 2.5 to 4.5, making it easy to shape and carve.
*100% Genuine & Natural
✦ Specifications ✦
| Shape: |
Customization Available |
| Size: |
Customization Available |
| Grade: |
AAA |
| Cutting: |
Customization Available |
| Style: |
Customization Available |
| MOQ: |
10 / Pieces |
✦ Main Product ✦
✦ Customization ✦
We guarantee that all gemstones are 100% natural, providing you with unparalleled quality and authenticity.
Whether you want a unique shape, size or design, we can bring your vision to life at no extra cost.
We are committed to providing the highest quality products and personalized service, designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
✦ Gemstone Details And Uses ✦
The process of natural white shell formation begins when an irritant, such as a grain of sand, enters the shell of a mollusk. The mollusk secretes mother-of-pearl to cover the irritant to protect itself, and over time this process leads to the formation of mother-of-pearl.
While pearls and mother-of-pearl are related, the key difference is that pearls are formed within the soft tissue of the mollusk, while mother-of-pearl lines the inner shell.
The use of natural white shells in art and decoration dates back thousands of years. Various ancient cultures, from the Egyptians to the Chinese, incorporated mother-of-pearl into their decoration and spiritual practices. In ancient Egypt, mother-of-pearl was used in jewelry, furniture inlays, and sacred objects. Its lustrous, ethereal qualities made it ideal for creating objects associated with the divine.
In traditional Chinese culture, mother-of-pearl was revered not only for its beauty, but also for its symbolism. It was believed to represent wisdom, purity, and harmony with nature. Chinese artisans inlaid mother-of-pearl in lacquerware to create intricate patterns on furniture and decorative items.
Similarly, on the Pacific Islands, mother-of-pearl is used for both functional and decorative purposes, often in tools, jewelry, and ceremonial objects.
In modern times, mother-of-pearl remains a popular material for decorative art and jewelry. Its timeless beauty and cultural significance ensure that it continues to be highly valued in both traditional and modern contexts.
Natural white shells are known for their iridescent sheen, the intensity of which depends on the thickness of the nacre and the type of mollusk from which they are sourced.
The reflective properties of mother-of-pearl create an ever-changing array of colors—typically white, silver, and pale pink, blue, or green—that change as the angle of light changes. This effect, known as the cat's eye effect, gives mother-of-pearl its mysterious allure, making it a favorite in jewelry and design.
White shells are also relatively soft and light, making them ideal for carving and crafting into delicate ornaments. Artisans can easily shape and polish mother-of-pearl to create a smooth, lustrous surface that highlights its natural beauty. The material's versatility allows it to be used in a variety of applications, from small decorative items to large furniture or musical instrument inlays.
