| 摘要 |
A nucleus (2, 102, 202) for producing blister or mab pearls (10) in molluscs is disclosed. The nucleus (2, 102, 202) is generally bell-shaped with a dome (7) and a peripheral edge portion (8). The surface of the peripheral edge portion (8) and some or all of the dome (7) includes one or more steps (9) which start at or adjacent the outer edge. The steps (9) assist by providing a key for the deposition of nacre The nucleus (2, 102, 202) may be secured to the shell (3) of the mollusc in a variety of ways. The nucleus (2, 102, 202) may include a tail (206) which is pulled through the shell (3). The mollusc is preferably selected from oysters, mussels and abalone. <IMAGE> |
