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Mother of Pearl in Interior Design It’s no secret that pearls are popular in jewelry. Being such a rare material, this gorgeous object evokes a classy and tasteful style. Mother of pearl also has a similar look in interior design today. Let’s take a deeper look into this trend. What is it? Mother of Pearl is the iridescent substance that forms the lining of the shells found in both freshwater and saltwater mollusks. Both pearls and mother of pearl are made of this material, which is scientifically called “nacre”. Nacre is a lining that protects the mollusk from bacteria, parasites and debris and is made of calcium carbonate crystals, silk proteins and other organic materials. When light reflects off the nacre, it creates a rainbow of colors. Who would think the protective layer in an oyster could be SO gorgeous?! 
 Where is it from? According to tous.com, “the best mother-of-pearl comes from mollusks such as abalone, snails and oysters that are found in tropical seas, mainly around Australia, the Philippines, South Sea Islands, Panama and Baja California.” However, mother of pearl is grown throughout the world in both fresh and salt water. Asia produces much of this material because there is an abundance of islands close together and the ocean’s water temperature is ideal for shells to cultivate. Why is it popular? It’s popular because it’s beautiful, of course! This material isn’t something that is factory made. Nature creates it itself, and no two will be the same. Its iridescent abstract design consumes light and illuminates pastel hues within a pearl finish. Specifically in interior design, it’s hand applied by artisans, which creates a personal touch to the natural beauty of it. 
How has it been used historically? Historically, mother of pearl has been found in ancient Egyptian pyramids and tombs. It has even been found in King Tutt’s tomb, representing protection in the afterlife. It has been used to create jewelry, clothing, and furniture accents in ancient Chinese dynasties. Native Americans used it in jewelry and traded it with other villages. Fast forward to the 1800s, mollusks were mined from the Mississippi River and crafted mass amounts of buttons. This thriving industry produced one-third of the global button supply until World War II, when plastic took over the market. What are the spiritual effects of Mother of Pearl? Whether you believe in holistic approaches or not, it is believed that mother of pearl has many positive effects on the human body and spirit. Mother of pearl brings wisdom and intuition, calming effects on emotions, and balance to the lungs and heart. It is even known to be supportive for expecting mothers, bringing power to feminine energy. Wow! 
How are designers using it? Design trends come and go, but fortunately enough for mother of pearl, it is a timeless material that won’t be outdated 10 years from now. It’s deemed valuable like a precious metal or jewel, so it brings emphasis to a living space, while providing a stunning opalescent sheen. Designers are using this material as tiles and backsplashes, table lamps, mirrors, and tabletop accessories. Reflective materials like mother of pearl bring light into dark rooms and provide a light and airy look. Since it’s a neutral-hued material, it can be used in any style, from coastal to transitional, and will work in any space.
 Patrick Day Home Gallery offers carefully curated collections of medium to high-end furniture from the country's top manufacturers. Located in Palm Beach County for 33 years, Patrick Day occupies a 10,000 square foot showroom and interior design center, carrying a large selection of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces sure to enhance your living space. Whether you seek contemporary accessories or traditional furnishings, Patrick Day carries a large selection of pieces designed to cater to a variety of personal styles. Browse our collection of accessories and furniture to find pillows, wall art, mirrors, floral arrangements, table lamps, area rugs, end tables, occasional chairs, sofas, cocktail tables, nightstands, consoles, Asian antiques and more. Want to see our selection of immediately available décor and furniture up close? Visit our showroom in Jupiter, FL on West Indiantown Road today! |
