Mother of pearl lacquer beads The materials used for mother of pearl shells mainly include abalone shells, pearl oysters, luminous snails, white butterfly shells, pearl oysters, amber, hawksbill shells, etc. Sometimes patterns are also carved on the shells. The most common one should be abalone shells. Abalone shells have a rich color, but most of them appear green brown or reddish brown, similar in color to rocks or seaweed, and are a protective color. At the same time, different types will also present different luster.