Mother of Pearl Pendant – Sterling Silver, Freeform Baroque Shape

This pendant sets an irregularly shaped, freeform piece of mother of pearl into a sterling silver bezel that follows the curve of the shell rather than a uniform round shape. The surface has a soft, lustrous white sheen with faint iridescent highlights along its contours — a baroque, organic silhouette rather than a symmetrical cut. At approximately 42mm x 37mm including the bail, it's a substantial, sculptural piece that sits with real presence on the chain provided.

About Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl is the iridescent nacre that lines the inside of certain mollusc shells — the same substance a pearl itself is made from, but here left as an intact piece of the shell rather than the rounded growth a pearl forms as. Its shifting sheen of grey, pink and green comes from the microscopic layered structure of the nacre, which scatters light differently depending on the angle it's viewed from. It's a durable, decorative material long used in jewellery and inlay work.

Specifications

• Material: Mother of pearl
• Setting: Sterling silver
• Shape: Freeform, baroque
• Dimensions: Approx. 42mm x 37mm (pendant, including bail)
• Chain: Sterling silver chain
• Availability: One-of-a-kind — 1 piece available

Caring for Your Mother of Pearl

Mother of pearl is an organic material and is softer and more porous than many gemstones. It can be damaged by perfume, cosmetics, household chemicals and prolonged sun exposure, and should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner. Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wearing, and store it away from harder jewellery that could scratch its surface.

Provenance

Selected by Joseph Bernecki and offered from his stall at The Rocks Market, George Street, Sydney — every Saturday and Sunday under the main canopy. Read Joseph's story →

Common Questions