Mabe

Mabe refers to a type of cultured pearl known for its large, hemispherical shape, used primarily in jewelry settings.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: Mabe pearls, often called blister pearls, are created through a unique cultivation process where a hemispherical nucleus is attached to the inside shell of an oyster, prompting the mollusk to cover the irritant in layers of nacre, forming the pearl. This results in a pearl with a flat back and a dome-shaped front, making it ideal for use in earrings, rings, and pendants due to its considerable size and appealing luster. Unlike the round pearls commonly seen in strands, mabe pearls offer a distinctive alternative that highlights their iridescent sheen in a more prominent setting. The cultivation of mabe pearls primarily takes place in Japan, the South Pacific islands, and recently, in Southeast Asia, contributing to the variety of sizes and colors available in the market.