The mystery of pearls and the magic of mother-of-pearl: jewelry with soul at Aktual 🌙
At Aktual, we love pearls and mother-of-pearl for their natural beauty and meaning. In our artisanal jewelry workshop in Madrid, these jewels are born from passion and tell their own stories.
Pearls: small jewels born silently underwater
Freshwater pearls, also known as river pearls, form inside certain mollusks as a natural response to a tiny "intruder." Quietly and unhurriedly, they grow layer by layer, surrounded by the nacre produced by the animal itself.
This silent, delicate, and profound transformation is what makes them so special. Each pearl is unique, with slight imperfections that give it character and authenticity. No two are alike, just as no two women who wear them are alike.
Unlike other gems that need to be cut or polished, pearls are born whole , with a soft luster that reflects light in an intimate way, as if their radiance came from within.
At Aktual , we fall in love with them not only for their beauty, but for what they represent:
the wisdom that is born from experience,
the strength that is cultivated over time,
and the delicacy that doesn't need to raise its voice to shine.
Pearl jewelry from Aktual
Living Water Bracelet : Made with natural freshwater pearls and golden beads, it pays homage to the flow of life. Each pearl—unique and imperfect—reflects authenticity and renewal. See
Pearl bracelet with clover pendant : a simple and meaningful piece, perfect for everyday wear. See
Double Clover and Pearl Pendant Necklace : Combines crystal and pearl for a delicate and balanced design. See
Mother-of-pearl: the shine of the interior
Nacre , or mother of pearl, is the iridescent inner layer of mollusk shells. It is often mistaken for pearl because of its luminosity, but it is not:
| Aspect | Pearl | Nacre |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | It grows inside the mollusk as a smooth globe | It lines the interior of shells (flat layers) |
| Shape | Spherical (natural or cultivated) | Flat, irregular, thin |
| Artisanal use | Any round piece or drop | It is usually carved or included in pendants and flat pieces. |
Mother-of-pearl jewelry from Aktual
Alma de Luz earrings : gold-plated base + natural mother-of-pearl piece. Serene and timeless , ideal for baptisms, weddings, or communions. See
Brass and mother-of-pearl earrings : a handcrafted brass frame combined with a mother-of-pearl disc—versatile and elegant. See
Long Mother-of-Pearl Cascade Earrings: handcrafted, 8 cm, with three pieces of mother-of-pearl and two pearls, over a gold plating. See
Mother-of-pearl cross pendant : a gold chain with a mother-of-pearl cross, sober and with spiritual meaning. See
Sweet Root Earrings : These pearls, soft as a caress that is not forgotten, hang from the silver as if descending from a sigh. See
Pearls vs. Mother-of-Pearl: Key Differences
Formation : Pearls are formed as a reaction to an irritant; nacre is the "natural paint" on the inside of the shell.
Texture : Pearls are smooth and rounded; nacre is shiny but flat and lighter.
Luster : Both have iridescence, but pearl shines from its core, while mother-of-pearl reflects light superficially.
Meanings that make you fall in love
Pearls : symbolize purity, transformation, inner serenity and emotional protection.
Mother-of-pearl : reflects the light of the soul, natural elegance and discreet spirituality.
In your pieces, these jewels tell stories of authentic women, with quiet strength and inner beauty. A treasure that shines with meaning!
Which one is your favorite?
Let me know if you're more inspired by soft, round pearls or the subtle reflection of mother-of-pearl. I can also help suggest combinations or new pieces for your collection.