A biomineral consisting of layers of crystalized ARAGONITE, separated by interlamellar layers of organic matrix containing beta-CHITIN, and surrounded by an intercrystalline organic membrane of silk fibroin. Nacre is the iridescent substance better known as mother-of-pearl that is secreted by MOLLUSCS.
    

concept

The ruler of Tahuata, Polynesia, encountered by Captain Cook on his second voyage. Engraving by J. Hall, 1777, after W. Hodges.

Healthy teeth compared to a pearl as an advertisement for Binaca tooth-cream. Colour lithograph by Niklaus Stoecklin, 1945.

Specification of Walter Baker : medicinal preparation.

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Mother-of-pearl

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Healthy teeth compared to a pearl as an advertisement for Binaca tooth-cream. Colour lithograph by Niklaus Stoecklin, 1945.

The ruler of Tahuata, Polynesia, encountered by Captain Cook on his second voyage. Engraving by J. Hall, 1777, after W. Hodges.

Specification of Walter Baker : medicinal preparation.