Black Mother of Pearl (Pinctada margaritifera)
Black Mother of Pearl shells, the dark, silky gems from the South Seas are cultured in the lagoons of Tahitian and Cook Island atolls. This black lipped oyster shell, with its lustrous colouring, is world renowned.
Designers use the Black Mother of Pearl shells for interior decoration in the form of tiles and paneling, also in the fashion industry for high-end jewellery or pearl shell buttons.
Whole Shell Black Mother of Pearl
Black Mother of Pearl information
The Pinctada margaritifera oysters are cultured in a hatchery before going into crystal clear tropical lagoons. Historically each shell would have undergone two or three seedings before being harvested, however a recent change in operating practices has meant most Luméa Black MOP shells have been through only one seeding process when they are harvested. These shells tend to be smaller and thinner, but still with the beautiful vibrant peacock colouring.
About 90% of Luméa Black MOP shells originate on the pearl farms in Tahiti. The small Cook Island lagoon of Manahiki offers only small quantities in comparison to the many atolls of Tahiti. The best shells are from the most remote Tahitian islands of Rikitea, where they have to make the long journey in small boats to the main island for grading and export.
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Ocean Shell is the world’s leading shell materials business. We are proud to introduce our Luméa range of natural eco-ethical shell materials.
We supply to wholesale and commercial customers around the globe.
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Your project is unique, so we provide personalised advice before delivering worldwide from our studio in New Zealand or direct from our trusted partners overseas.
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Your project is unique, so we provide personalised advice before delivering worldwide from our studio in New Zealand.
Luméa products are made from natural shell with a variety of factors that affect form and function. If you can’t find the right product from within our range, then talk to us about our custom design service. We love to experiment and collaborate with our partners to create unique solutions.