Mother-of-pearl inlay is a technique for ornamenting wooden structures by inlaying pieces of mother-of-pearl into slots that are available in various shapes and sizes.
A mother of pearl is a multi-colored, hard, iridescent substance found inside oysters and mussels' shells. This substance is believed to reflect the sun's seven colors. Even though traditional knowledge differs among the Submitting States, details of production techniques and decorative features, as well as general characteristics of the element, are similar. A variety of objects are crafted from mother of pearl, including Koran cases, desks, chests, window shutters, chairs, lecterns, mirrors, jewel cases, and musical instruments.
The element is mainly practiced by men in Azerbaijan, but a few women also participate, consisting of masters (ustas) and apprentices (şagirds). Azerbaijan and Türkiye have passed on the knowledge, skills, and techniques of the element from generation to generation through master-apprentice relationships, orally, observation of master movements, memorization of the techniques and skills used, and experimental practice under the master's supervision. Workshops are organized by master craftspeople's ateliers, public education centers, universities, and non-governmental organizations. Social media, blogs, forums, and online workshops have also become popular tools for practitioners to share their knowledge and skills today.
It has been practiced by people of all genders, cultures, economic levels, ethnicities, and religions. As this element promotes personal growth, mental relaxation, and rehabilitation, it has also been applied to disabled people and people who have difficulty integrating into society in recent decades. As a result of the inscription of this element, Azerbaijani and Turkish communities living abroad may be encouraged to strengthen cultural ties among themselves and with their homelands. The tradition brings out the creativity of human beings by ornamenting traditional craftsmanship.
The element is safeguarded and transmitted within Azerbaijan's families for centuries. Communities have participated in safeguarding and transmission initiatives more recently (since the late 1990s) through their participation in NGO projects like Obyektiv PU. Also, a variety of initiatives and safeguarding measures have been taken in Turkey to ensure that the element will be viable and transmitted. As an example, the mother of pearl inlay master's inventory was made, and exhibitions were held as part of the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture program. A wide range of written and visual information and promotional materials have been published in connection with the element. The NGOs and universities organized symposiums, conferences, workshops, and broadcast several radio and TV programs.