Shell / MOP Jewelry

In certain cultures it is not the pearl but the Shells- Mother Of Pearl that carries more importance. An extraordinary creation of God, Mother of pearl is valued and categorized by the opalescent substance that forms the lining of the shells of some freshwater and some salt-water mollusks and the pseudopodia.

A shell is the most universally identifiable part of mollusks. Shells-MOP is composed of the alternate layers of calcium carbonate and conchiolin by the secretions of the mollusks. These secretions glimmer with the light in different colors. It can take up any or all of the rainbow colors depending upon the type of the creature and their living environment.

The Shells-MOP is used for making jewelry that goes well with almost any attire. They are used for various decorative purposes including fashion jewelry. The shell jewelry goes particularly well with the beach wear and informal wear.

Types of Shells:
Based on the structure, they are of two types:

Gastropod Sea Shell/ Univalves: They are single piece shells not joined or hinged with another piece. The are a complete entity in single unit. The shell is usually coiled.

Pelecypod Sea Shell/ Bivalve: These are 2 piece shells that are hinged.

Finishes
There are certain properties required in the MOP so that it can be used for decoration; such as workable thickness reflection of rainbow colors. Depending on these qualities the usable Shells-MOP can be of following types:

White Mother of Pearl: Obtained from the pearl bearing oyster, it has high reflective qualities.

Iridescent Mother of Pearl: They come in pinks and greens

Chip (Variegated) Mother of Pearl: They are multicolored types.

Stone Mother of Pearl: They are white with lesser reflective qualities

Mat Mother of Pearl: They are dull gray with low reflective qualities.

Further, depending upon the source water body, it is of two types

Fresh Water - Found in rivers are usually white & yellow in color.

Sea/ Salt Water - they are bigger and in Rainbow, Black or White colors

Using Shells / MOP in jewelry:
The mother of pearl jewelry gives a shimmering touch to the attire. It gives fresh cool looks. Whether combined with sterling silver or fierce gold, it has an elegant appeal to it. It goes well with almost all fashion trends. It is used in rings, necklaces, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and anklets. It may even be carved if the thickness allows. It is affordable and elegant jewelry material. To know where shells are found in India, click here Shell Beaches

Products:
Skillfully handcrafted by expert craftsmen in intricate patterns and based upon latest and trendy designs, the fashion jewerly comprises of: