Did you know that PAUA shell is only found in the sea around New Zealand. This marine mollusk eats seaweed and lives clinging to rocks at depths of 1-10 meters, normally along the shoreline. PAUA is harvested by skin divers from its habitat below low tide level off rocky exposed coasts around southern New Zealand. The shells are crushed and tumbled to remove the outer layers of lime and marine growth.
The color in the PAUA shell changes when viewed at different angles. This iridescence, similar to that of the Mother of Pearl shell and Opals, but far more brilliant, is what makes PAUA shell so amazing as a gem material for use in jewelry. PAUA shell is the most colorful of all the abalone shells. With colors of green, blue, and purple. The brilliant colors are from light being refracted within the crystal layers. Most other abalone shells are pale in comparison.
It is truly one of nature's marvels. Each shell is also different in it's patterns within the shell. The black patterns in the shell come from layers of protein that are laid down between the layers of calcium that make up the shell.
No wonder why I am so fascinated by this simple yet beautiful shell.
Thinking ahead for Christmas gifts? Take a look at all our beautiful PAUA jewelry and use the code CLD15 for a 15% off discount.
Britnee
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment