kapis

Kapis is the Filipino term for capiz, the transparent shell of Placuna placenta, a small, flat bivalve mollusk found in shallow coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific. The shell is thin and porcelain-like, with a nacreous interior that can be shaved or cut into translucent sheets. Capiz shells have been collected and processed for centuries and are closely associated with Filipino craft and architecture.

Description and distribution: Capiz is native to warm, shallow seas and is especially abundant around the Philippines. The shells are harvested, cleaned, and sliced into thin sheets that resemble glass in clarity and tint, typically ranging from milky white to slightly pinkish hues. The resulting material is lightweight, durable, and easily shaped for various handicrafts.

Uses: Capiz sheets are used to create windows, light fixtures, lampshades, and decorative panels, famously known as capiz windows during the colonial era. Beyond architectural applications, capiz is also used in jewelry, beads, buttons, and other crafts. The material gained notoriety for its aesthetic appeal and its ability to diffuse light softly.

Economy and conservation: Capiz has been an important export product for local artisans and regional economies in the Philippines. Sustainable harvesting and processing practices are important to maintain wild populations, with some efforts aimed at responsible sourcing and regulation to prevent overharvesting.

See also: Capiz windows, Placuna placenta, Capiz shell.