Mother of Pearl is the iridescent lining from the
shell of mollusks such as mussels and oysters. Among the chief sources
are the pearl oyster found in the tropical waters of Asia; freshwater pearl
mussels and various varieties of the abalone. The bright rainbow colors
are the result of layer after layer of secretions that the mollusk uses to
create its shell home. The color of an individual shell is dependent on
the type of mollusk and the environment in which it lives.
Although there are many types of mother of pearl, in
order for them to be used in jewelry making or other artwork certain properties
must be met. They must have a thickness that allows them to be
worked. They must reflect the colors of the rainbow and the colors must
be visually pleasing.
Mother of Pearl has been used at least since the
ancient Sumerian times. Two such objects are in the Louvre and there are
other examples from Greece, Italy, China and Cyprus.
Types of Mother of Pearl
White Mother of Pearl: This is from pearl-bearing oysters. Its reflective
properties are high and it is one of the most commonly used types of this
material.
Iridescent Mother of Pearl: This is a type in which the colors of pink and
green are predominant.
Chip (Variegated) Mother of Pearl: This is a multicolored type.
Stone Mother of Pearl: This type of mother of pearls is white and has low
reflective power.
Mat Mother of Pearl: This type of mother of pearl is dull gray and has a low
reflective power.
Worldly Treasures carries a variety of necklaces and
bracelets and other jewelry made from Mother of Pearl. Please take a look
at our catalog and browse through the
different categories and you will find several that incorporate Mother of Pearl
as part of their materials.
