Nucleus and method for producing half or mabe pearls

摘要

The invention relates to a nucleus for the production of half or mabe pearls in molluscs. The nucleus comprises a first portion having an external surface adapted to define the shape of the half or mabe pearl to be produced and a second portion which defines a bridge between said first portion and the shell of the host mollusc. The half or mabe pearls so produced have a substantially even cross section of nacre formed over the nucleus, and a generally reduced time is required for the formation of the pearl.