White Mother of Pearl
White mother of pearl, also referred to as white nacre, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by various mollusks, including marine pearl oysters, as a natural defense against irritants like parasites.
It is prized for its white background with a pearlescent, iridescent shine, displaying subtle hints of pink or gold, especially when light reflects off its surface. This material is commonly sourced from regions like Australia and New Zealand, as per your specification, where it is harvested for use in jewellery, decor, and other applications.
- Origin: White mother of pearl originates from pearl oysters in Australia, particularly in northern regions like Broome, known for its pearl industry, and New Zealand, where pearl farming is less prominent but notable. It’s more abundant than black mother of pearl, making it widely available for jewellery and decor.
- Characteristics: It has a white background with pearlescence over the entire surface, offering a luminous, iridescent effect due to the diffraction of light through aragonite platelets, similar to black but with a lighter, more classic appearance. Its hardness is around 2.5 on the Mohs scale, suitable for inlays and carvings, and it’s more common, making it accessible for various designs.
- Uses in Jewellery and Beyond: Highly prized for fine jewellery, it’s used in pendants, earrings, rings, and bracelets, often set in metals like silver or gold, due to its durability and moisture resistance. Beyond jewellery, it’s used in furniture inlays, watch dials, and musical instrument decorations, reflecting its versatility.
- Cultural and Aesthetic Appeal: White mother of pearl is seen as a symbol of purity and elegance, often associated with classic designs, making it appealing for bridal jewellery and formal wear.
White mother of pearl has been used for centuries in various cultures for its aesthetic appeal. Beyond jewellery, it’s also used in inlay work for furniture and musical instruments, showcasing its versatility. Notably, Australian mother of pearl from Pinctada maxima can have a distinctive golden or silver-white color.
At Tai Chung Jewellery, we are dedicated to crafting exceptional jewellery using white mother of pearl. Each piece is designed to highlight the natural beauty of this material, ensuring that every customer receives a unique and elegant item.