Shell & Pearl These very lovely shell beads are entirely cut and shaped by hand from natural shells. Perfect for shining earrings, bracelets and ankle bracelets. The quality of pearls is judged by the orient, which is the soft iridescence caused by the refraction of light by the layers of nacre, and luster, the reflectivity and shine of the surface. Fine pearls do not have any flaws or spots in the nacre: it has an even, smooth texture.