Pearls are formed inside the shells of oysters. Oysters and other shell-forming molluscs make a special substance, called nacre (pronounced NAY kur) that lines the insides of their shells. This smooth lining is called the nacreous layers, or pearly layer, and it is often lustrous. It is formed by cells from a fleshy body organ called the mantle. When a foreign substance, such as a bit of shell or a tiny parasite, enters the body of the mollusc, the mantle cells begin to work.

Main Researcher: Dr Zahariah Ismail
Email: zahariah@mpob.gov.my