Kapiz shells are marine bivalve that is common in Philippine coastal waters
that characterized by a large thin flat translucent shell.  Kapiz shells
are used in most handsome buildings and mansions for service as well as for
decoration. Other uses of kapiz shells are for production of lampshades and
stands, novelties, Christmas and other greeting cards, glass coasters,
jewelry boxes, screen shades, room dividers, panels, wall paneling, tissue
boxes, wind chimes, handbags, belts, fashion accessories, dish and servers
lamination. 

Kapiz shells features are white outside and pearly inside.  The shell is
feeble and thin looking but is claimed to be stronger than plate glass. The
right half of the shell is perfectly flat and has teeth fitted into grooves
in the left half, which is slightly concave (male).  The right valves are
slightly raised for breathing and feeding.  The sea shell species belong to
mollusk group similar to the sun and moon shell, being circular and very
flat with approximate sizes of 2 1/4 to 5" in diameter with irregular
edges.  Chemical analysis show that this species of shell “Placuna placenta
linn??? has the highest carbonate commonly found in Philippine waters from
a depth of 3 – 12 meters in the form of bed deposits.
Capiz panels can be manufactured in all sizes and shapes. The coating of
high polymer resin makes them waterproof and impervious to heat, alcohol
and vinegar. 

  In places where the water is deeper like those of the shores of Bataan and
Cavite, gatherers are supplied with diving helmets.  After being gathered,
the shells are cleaned, graded and placed in huge baskets ready for market.