Mother of pearls gems has traveled this far since 4200 BC. It is known for its unique properties. It shows effects like iridescence and play of colors.

It has been known for years now. Thus, here, we will talk about the history of the mother of pearl; from ancient artifacts to modern décor.

Here you will get to read about the history of the mother of pearls gemstone. And how it is still used for different purposes. Here we go.

Origin of Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl stone is a gemstone of ancient times. It was first seen in use from 4200 BC in ancient Egypt. At that time it was used to decorate royal tombs. These have been discovered in the pyramids as evidence of their value during the ritual of burial.

The Mesopotamians were also seen using these gems around 2500 BC. It was a highly valued material in China during the Shang Dynasty and Ming Dynasty. They used it for many decorative things. It is glossy, hence became a status symbol.

Read also about this gemstone : Ethiopian Opal

Cultural Importance of Mother of Pearls

Mother of pearl has been linked to different things by various cultures across history. In most cultures, it holds a meaning that symbolizes protection or nurturing.

Mother of pearl is believed to have a spiritual quality that endows its user with power and mental alertness. On the other hand, in feng shui practices, this shell type is also considered auspicious for luck and wealth.

The Popularity of Mother of Pearl in Art and Craft

Mother of pearl became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages which had expanded trade routes. The travels of Marco Polo to India during the late 13th century brought this beautiful material to European artisans.

This gave birth to their interest in using them for decorative purposes. Mother of pearl then reached new pinnacles of popularity by the 19th century with the arrival of the button industry.

Places like Broome, Australia, became havens for extensive harvesting of mother of pearl for button production. In its peak time, more than 140,000 kilograms were used annually to satisfy global demand.

The industry again declined after World War II because of plastic buttons.

Read more : What are the Physical Benefits of Ethiopian Opals?

Modern Uses of Mother of Pearls

Mother of pearl is appreciated across the globe for its beauty and has an aesthetic worth. The element is used in jewelry, interior design, musical instruments, and also in fashion.

• Jewelry

Mother of pearl is used in jewels and has become popular because it costs much less than the real pearl. It is used in intricate designs of jewels that allow all its natural beauty to come out.

Labradorite Stone and Opal Stone are used in making beautiful jewels like mother of pearls.

• Home Decoration

Mother of pearl is commonly used in home decoration for inlays on furniture pieces like tables and cabinets. It gives a very shining appearance to transform simple things into beautiful pieces. It is also used to make decorative items like vases and picture frames.

• Musical Instruments

Mother of pearl has also made its way into musical instruments. It is mostly used as an accent for guitars and any other stringed instrument, not only because it can make the visual appeal great but also adds much to the acoustics. Learn more

The Craftsmanship behind Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl is not a product that can be easily maintained because it requires care and expertise. Generations of artists have developed the necessary skills to carve the mother of pearl for the local people of Bethlehem to be proud of.

The nacre is cut into the desired shapes yet maintains its original beauty without losing that best beauty of the nacre by artists' cutting and shape-giving. That way, every piece is different.

Conclusion

The history of the mother of pearl is long and multicolored, and it has traveled several thousands of years in many cultures. From ancient Egypt to modern designs in jewelry, this stunning material has been bewitching people with its iridescence and versatility.

Whether as jewelry or ornament, the mother of pearl is sure to be an ageless evocation of grace and beauty. This is all about the history of the mother of pearl; from ancient artifacts to modern décor. if you want to buy gemstone then must visit : GemstonesForSale