Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl, also known as nacre, is the iridescent and lustrous inner lining of the shells of various mollusks, including oysters and abalones, which are also known for their ability to produce pearls. Nacre is a composite material made primarily of aragonite (a form of calcium carbonate) and conchiolin, a protein that helps to bond the layers together. Unlike pearls, which form as discrete objects within the mollusk's flesh, mother of pearl develops as a continuous layer that lines the interior of the shell, providing protection to the mollusk and contributing to its structural integrity. The captivating coloration of mother of pearl results from the microscopic structure of nacre, which reflects light in a way that creates a shimmering, iridescent effect. This unique feature has made mother of pearl a popular material for decorative items, jewelry, and inlays for furniture and musical instruments.