Natural abalone shells exhibiting a brilliantly coloured internal lustre, with a seawashed external surface. Traditionally used for smudging, the shell also rests easy on shoreline chic furniture, or adds a layer of interest to an informal bathroom setting.

Price shown per shell

Shell size:15cm

Description & Application:
These extra large abalone shells exhibit a brilliantly coloured internal lustre, whilst the seawashed ruched external surface often reveals a hint of the hidden swirling blue and green iridescent mother of pearl for which the shell is justifiably famous.

When fully polished the shells are highly prized for jewellery and object d'art.

This natural unpolished specimen rests easy as a feature on whitewashed furniture, or adds a layer of interest to an informal bathroom setting.

Abalone Shells and Smudging:
Traditionally abalone shells have been used for the purpose of smudging.
Different cultures have had their own methods of burning aromatic mixtures which have long been traded (and taxed !) as valuable commodities along the silk roads linking Mongolia to Persia and Europe. From Elizabethan times sea routes from the “New World” discovered new examples of smudging among Native Americans.
Surfaces should be protected from scorching and the shell should not be left unattended whilst wood, herbs or spices are burning.

Colour & Form:
We take great care to provide accurate images, however, as a totally natural product shade variations and irregularities can occur, we consider these add to the fascination of the collection.

Online Prices
All prices shown include UK VAT, but exclude delivery. Multi-product orders only attract a single delivery charge.

Export Status 1/1/24
We accept orders to EU countries and continue to review requirements for documentation and costs.
Minimum order €150
Duty and VAT are payable in the destination country.
PID (personal Tax Identification Number) or EORI are required prior to shipping.

International orders are delivered using DAPS terms

Delivery:
This product option is packed in a secure weatherproof pack.
Delivery is either by post, national or international couriers. Our checkout allows for you to advise us of any delivery requirements or concerns you may have.

Ecological Note:
Abalone shells form part of over 100 species of similar low spiral shells found widely throughout the world from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and the UK Channel Isles where the shells are known as ormers.

In New Zealand the Paua shell is fished under strict licence with restrictions on the number and size of shells collected.

Principally in China and Japan where abalone meat is a prized delicacy commercial farming of abalone is carried out.

Classification: Haliotis midae Gmelin