Mother-of-pearl

Mother-of-pearl, also known as nacre, is a smooth, iridescent substance found inside the shells of certain mollusks like oysters and abalones. It forms as a protective layer to shield the shell from damage and consists of tiny, tightly packed calcium carbonate crystals stacked in layers. This structure causes light to refract and creates its characteristic shimmering, colorful appearance. Mother-of-pearl is valued for its beauty and strength, making it popular in jewelry, buttons, and decorative items. Its durability and luminous quality result from natural processes that build up the layered structure over time.