This large NZ Paua Shell measures approximately 12-15cm (4 3/4" - 6") long, and is half polished.  This allows you to see the natural shell of the abalone, as well as the beautiful colours hiding under the outer shell.

Paua shell is New Zealand's native abalone, Haliotis iris, found only in NZ waters.  No two shells are the same, but all are beautiful.  The shell contains irridescent shades of blue, green, pink and purple.

Maori consider paua to be taonga, a treasure, as they are an important seafood as well as the shell being used in arts and crafts.  Paua shell is frequently used to represent eyes in Maori carvings.

The shell is often transformed into jewellery, or used in homewares to give a distinctly Kiwi look to an item.  On their own, the shells are used as receptacles for jewellery and other small items.

The shell is a by-product of paua farming, with the paua collected under a strict quota system.

These polished paua shell can be shipped worldwide.  Please note that they do not come boxed.