Shell and mother-of-pearl beads
Shell and mother-of-pearl beads: luminous, summery and natural DIY jewelry
Shell and mother-of-pearl beads bring a natural and luminous touch to your DIY creations. Their soft, often iridescent sheen makes them essential for summer jewelry, bohemian chic styles, or very elegant minimalist designs. If you want to create a light, refined, and easy-to-match piece of jewelry, mother-of-pearl and shell are always a safe bet.
On Gingerlily, you will find shell/mother-of-pearl beads for jewelry in different shapes (round, heishi, drops, pendants…) to create necklaces, bracelets, earrings and anklets.
Why choose mother-of-pearl and seashells for DIY jewelry making?
Mother-of-pearl and shell are particularly appreciated for their natural appearance and their ability to illuminate a composition, even with few elements.
- Iridescent glow : provides a soft and elegant light.
- Summer style : perfect for summer jewelry, seaside, bohemian looks.
- Lightweight : comfortable to wear, ideal for earrings.
- Versatility : pairs very well with gold, stainless steel, natural stones and glass.
How to use mother-of-pearl/shell beads?
Depending on their shape, you can easily integrate them into different setups:
- Heishi bracelets : a very trendy look, easy to wear every day.
- Minimalist necklaces : a few mother-of-pearl beads + a fine chain for a chic look.
- Luminous earrings : a pearly teardrop on a stud or a sleeper earring.
- Ankle jewelry : summer style, light and refined.
Tip: Combine mother-of-pearl with gold findings for a very luminous effect, or with stainless steel for a more modern and durable style.
DIY craft ideas using mother-of-pearl/seashell
- Summer bracelet : mother-of-pearl heishi beads + small marine charm.
- “Seaside” necklace : fine chain + central mother-of-pearl bead + extension.
- Drop earrings : mother-of-pearl teardrop + sleeper earring for a chic look.
Creation scenario: mount a mother-of-pearl bead as the centerpiece on a fine gold chain, add a micro-charm (star, shell, moon) and finish with a clasp and an extension. You get a luminous piece of jewelry that's easy to give as a gift.
Access useful collections directly
👉 See all our shell/mother-of-pearl beads : access the collection
FAQ — Shell & Mother-of-Pearl Beads
What is the difference between a seashell and mother-of-pearl?
Mother-of-pearl is the iridescent part that gives it a soft sheen. The shell can offer more "natural" textures and appearances depending on the shape.
Is mother-of-pearl suitable for everyday jewelry?
Yes, especially for lightweight jewelry. Just avoid excessive shocks and friction.
What materials can mother-of-pearl be combined with?
Gold for a luminous effect, stainless steel for a modern style, and natural stones for an elegant mix.
Which DIY project is the simplest?
A mother-of-pearl heishi bracelet or a minimalist necklace with a few beads and a thin chain.
Can earrings be made from mother-of-pearl?
Yes, it's ideal: a mother-of-pearl tassel gives a chic and light look.
Other natural pearls and materials are available in the Gingerlily shop.
Photos are for illustrative purposes only and are not contractually binding.