PAUA SHELL  SILVER PENDANT 

This is a natural Abalone shell parcel harvested in New Zealand waters.This has been well carved and  polished.

Silver stamped 925

 Size of shell  44 x 42 x 5 mm app

Weight of silver and pendant. 36.30 cts app

Paua or pāua is the Māori name given to three species of large edible sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs which belong to the family Haliotidae (there is only genus Haliotis), known in the USA as abalone, and in the UK as ormer shells.PauapāuaMāori name given to three species of large edible sea snails, marinegastropod molluscs which belong to the familyHaliotidae (there is only genus Haliotis), known in the USA as abalone,  or

The shell of the abalone is exceptionally strong. It is made of microscopic calcium carbonate tiles stacked like bricks. Between the layers of shells is a clingy protein substance. When the abalone shell is struck, the tiles slide instead of shattering and the protein stretches to absorb the energy of the blow. Material scientists around the world are studying the tiled structure for insight into stronger ceramic products such as body armor.