Shell and Mother of Pearl Jewellery Collections
Shell and Mother of Pearl Earrings
Shell and mother of pearl: An iridescent alternative to pearl
Pearl is a classically revered gemstone that has stood the test of time. But equally elegant is shell and mother of pearl jewellery, which has been doing the rounds for just as long. In fact, while pearls in jewellery are a popular gemstone today, their fashion significance paled in comparison to shell and mother of pearl jewellery in the past.
Shell and mother of pearl have a unique look that seems to perfectly combine the chic and the mythical. The success of this kind of jewellery must be closely linked to human-kind's close relationship with the sea and vast quantity of history that is bundled up in each shell and mother of pearl piece, making them a stunning and interesting talking point.
The understated, lustrous look and feel of shell and mother of pearl allows jewellery based on the precious stone to be teamed with practically any outfit and the quality of Cavendish French jewellery means it is a perfect choice for those special occasions when brighter, more dazzling stones just won't do.
But, fortunately, shell and mother of pearl jewellery is extremely hard wearing, so it can be worn day-to-day without any concern that it will lose its sheen or succumb to scratches.
What is mother of pearl?
The reason shell and mother of pearl jewellery is so popular is because it is technically pearl - a gemstone that has been exceedingly popular itself throughout history. It is the same combination of minerals found in pearls and is secreted by oysters and other molluscs - including muscles. Shell and mother of pearl is what gives these adaptable sea creatures their distinctive colouring.
It is the ultimate organic jewellery, as it is harvested from living creatures, and has at times been more sought after than pearl itself.
Known as nacre, shell and mother of pearl is a unique substance in that its composite parts very closely match the wavelength of visible light. This means that when viewed from different angles, the substance reflects different colours - giving the gemstone its distinctive depth and intriguing character.
What is shell and mother of pearl used for?
Shell and mother of pearl jewellery has been around since antiquity and has been used for an unfathomable number of adornments and ornaments. Its fantastically colourful quality means it has often been used for decorative purposes alongside other stones and precious metals - such as in handmade silver jewellery.
Altarpieces, tiled inlays, decorative artwork and jewellery have all incorporated shell and mother of pearl at some point in history. Both black and white shell and mother of pearl has been used extensively in architecture and the material is often adjoined to ceramic tiles to break up large areas of uniform colour.
Shell and mother of pearl pendants and buttons have been popular with royalty, but the substance is also a common adornment for watches and weaponry.
Modern shell and mother of pearl jewellery
As always, Cavendish French likes to put a modern twist on classic jewellery and shell and mother of pearl is no exception. Teaming the lustrous gemstone with the best sterling silver gives a unique edge to Cavendish French jewellery making it the ideal accessory no matter how opulent the occasion.
Whether you are looking for pendants, necklaces or earrings we will have something to suit your taste. All our jewellery is handmade using the best materials and our selection of shell and mother of pearl is no different. We only use the best.
So, if you're looking to buy shell and mother of pearl jewellery online, look no further than Cavendish French.
