Scientists re-create a legendary golden fabric from clam waste

Scientists recreated sea silk fabric using discarded South Korean food clam parts instead of endangered Mediterranean giant clams. They replicated the traditional process, creating identical golden threads. Sea silk's color comes from protein nanofibrils in helical bundles, producing structural color when iron is removed. This breakthrough could revive sea silk production through sustainable upcycling and create new nontoxic golden pigments for luxury goods.