Interesting fact:
The mother of pearl is most typically derived from shells collected during searches for pearl, however sometimes the gathering of mother of pearl shells is done autonomously.
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Careers:
Public Speakers, collage students, radio announcers, DJ's, politicians, orators, civic leaders.
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DESCRIPTION OF MOTHER OF PEARL
Mother of pearl is a calcareous shell of certain mollusks and sea animals which from time beyond all memory have been used by people for decorating all sorts of objects.
The modern-day Russian word “perlamutr” originates from the German word “Perlmutter” meaning: the mother, namely, producer of pearl, since pearl is found in such shells. Previously the mother of pearl was known in Russia simply by the name of “shell”; the English version is “mother of pearl”, the Italian “madreperla”, the old French “mereperle” – that is to say that the meaning of the word is the same in all these languages. The more recent French designation “la nacre” hails from the Arabic word “nakar” which means “shell”.
The mother of pearl primarily consists of lime carbonate containing a little admixture of organic substance; it is found in the shell of some mollusks and covers it from the inside with a more or less thick layer. It is a rich substance, which also makes up pearls; the beautiful play of white, purple, emerald and blue colors is reflected in its luminous and shiny tinge. These plays of colors are not caused by some coloring substance but only by the intrinsic design of the shell itself, consisting of tiny plates sectioned by miniscule air cavities refracting the rays of light. Even though this multitude consists of thin, intersecting layers gradually secreted by the body of the animal that lives inside the shell, it is so strong that it can be separated and sawed off only using very small steel saws.
Healing properties:
The medicinal properties of mother of pearl have been used since old times. Alchemists believed that the powder produced from mother of pearl could cure practically any illness. Contemporary healers think that mother of pearl facilitates enhanced health of the organism while boosting immunity and working capacity. Pearl and mother of pearl, as well as the “pearl essence” derived from both of them back in ancient times and then in the Middle Ages, were ascribed medicinal and enhancing power which explains the use of this liquid against any conceivable ailments. The most renowned pearl-based product was invented at the end of the 17th century by Popp and Agricola; it allegedly enhanced the heart in the most amazing way and was administered in the event of fainting and feebleness.
Since the days of yore, the powder produced from white mother of pearl has been used in the production of cosmetic creams. It was believed that using such cream one could whiten facial skin and remove freckles and pigment spots. Earrings made of shell were worn in order to enhance the hearing.
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