Introduction
Reflecting the rainbows of the ocean beds, iridescent Mother of Pearl is the opal of the sea. Like amber, Mother of Pearl is organic, but unlike any other gemstone it forms locked away within its creator: the mollusk.

15th Century Europeans, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, gave Mother of Pearl its name. However the beauty of Mother of Pearl, associated birthstone of June, has been used in the decoration of precious jewels and ornaments as far back as 3000 years before the birth of Christ.

Definition
Mother of Pearl: Crystals of calcium carbonate and conchiolin, secreted by the living organism within a mollusk, which build up and solidify coating the inner surface of the shell. Also known as Nacre (na'ker): from the Arabic word 'Naqqarah' meaning shell.

Mother of Pearl Care
Mother of Pearl is a hydrated gemstone, so it is essential to keep it away from direct sunlight, strong sources of heat or very dry atmospheres. If Mother of Pearl is left to dry out its surfaces crack and it becomes less resistant to ware and tear. Never use strong abrasives or alcohol to polish your Mother of Pearl sterling silver jewelry, as this will destroy its play of color.

Store your Mother of Pearl sterling silver jewelry in a dark cool place, and keep it looking its best by wiping it occasionally with a damp cloth. Wear it often; Mother of Pearl jewelry loves the bodies' natural oils. The Nizams of India, famous for their pearl treasures, used to adorn their court eunuchs with pearl jewelry as their body oils kept the pearls in perfect condition!