ABALONE BEAD

This is a natural untreated Abalone shell with 8 sides joined to gether to make a unusual attractive bead..It has been drilled and is ready to wear.

Harvested in Australian waters

Weight 33.35 cts app

Drilled 23 x 12 mm app

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.