In terms of location, the pearl is formed within the mollusk’s tissue, while the mother of pearl is found on the shell’s inner lining. The design is then thoroughly set on the surface to be inlaid. This is usually done with the help of water-based glue, which also helps in accurately tracing their outlines. Then, the chunks of mother of pearl are removed without harming them in any way, and a small router carves a narrow silhouette onto the wooden surface. Natural shells having the mother of pearl are found across the globe. They are more abundant than pearl shells. This is logically true, as the mollusks forming pearls shall always contain a shell but shall occasionally have a pearl.

Each shell of the mother of pearl is distinct in terms of texture and color. Its glimmering finish makes it an ideal material for embellishment, particularly as an inlay in metal items and wood furniture. Before inlay, this brittle gem is cut and routed. Shells having the mother of pearl are present in both sweaters and freshwater. Still, they are likely to vary in terms of type. The gemstone features a shining creamy white color as well as a smooth texture.

This gemstone can dull or become yellow with time as well as inadequate care. Thus, it is essential to take proper care of the stone or jewelry so that it remains radiant for a long time. Then, a hammer helps in fitting each chunk into the wood after which the design is glued. The full inlay design is finally sanded to take off surplus glue as well as eradicate any uneven spots. Comparison with Similar Stones

A pearl occurring naturally is costlier than a naturally-occurring mother of pearl, as pearls are relatively and considerably rarer. It is like this: All mollusks producing nacre will contain a mother of pearl within their shell but not necessarily a pearl that can be embedded into a piece of jewelry. Nevertheless, out of them, just a small percentage of them shall contain a small foreign particle to reach inside the shells to form pearls. The color directly relies on the type of mollusk. For example, abalone is known for its ability to deliver the most colorful and radiant varieties. It typically renders purple, green, and blue shades. The ‘mother of pearl’ term is derived from ‘mater perlarun’, a Latin phrase. Chemically, mother of pearl refers to an organic lustrous lining present on the inner layer of a mollusk’s shell that is known to produce nacre. Thus, nacre is another word for this gemstone. It is referred to as the substance that makes pearls.

In terms of usage in jewelry, pearls are typically drilled and threaded; they are not set unlike the mother of pearl. Certainly, pearl jewelry has gained a higher level of elegance and luxury than the mother of pearl jewelry. Pearl jewelry is strung by adding several matching gemstones. Mother of Pearl vs. Abalone Using ultrasonic cleaners that would surely harm the stone, as it is too soft to handle the force from these gadgets Exposing to perfumes, hairsprays, or cosmetics, means putting your jewelry last after applying everything else A popular belief is that the shells lined with nacre are the belly wherein pearls are formed. This is perhaps why it is the iridescent gem is called the mother of pearl. As a result, many people believe that the actual pearl and mother of pearl are identical.

Wearing jewelry while participating in energetic or water-based activities such as cleaning and swimming It is common for pearl fans to compare the mother of pearl with pearl and other stones. However, the mother of pearl is distinct. Let’s understand this fact by making a fair comparison. Mother of Pearl vs. Pearl The gemstone is also used to highlight the different musical instruments such as accordions, guitars, and harmoniums. Lastly, you will usually see the mother of pearl on the outfits, such as in buttons and cufflinks. Just as with most healing crystals as well as stones, you should wear a mother of pearl close to your skin.

Abalone is one of the sources of the mother of pearl, as it is a type of mollusk secreting nacre. So, in this sense, it is just like the oyster. However, it is rare to spot it, due to which it is highly valuable. The best combination to use with Mother of Pearl Due to its abundance, the mother of pearl is quite affordable. It is even more affordable than pearl, due to which many consider it a budget substitute when it comes to buying jewelry. In this sense, this gemstone is not that highly valuable.