Shells Used in Craft and Decoration

Paua : Haliotis iris
Endemic to New Zealand and surrounding islands, paua shells offer the most colorful spectrum, notably in
deep blue and blue-green iridescence. Paua are recognized as valued resource for traditional and contemporary arts
and crafts, and the shell is extremely popular as souvenirs and jewelry.

Mother of Pearl (MOP) : Pinctada maxima
Pearl oysters have a strong inner shell layer composed of nacre, and they are currently cultured in Australia, Tahiti. Fiji,
Myanmar, and other parts of the Pacific Ocean. There are a number of pearl oyster subspecies used for decoration,
and their colors range from white, yellow and gold to red and black.

Prism Abalone : Haliotis discus
Found primarily in China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam and other Asian countries, this nacre is seen often as a backing
veneer in Oriental antiques due to their primary white background. However, the rich spectrum emitted from the shell
at even a slight variation of viewing angle makes prism abalone one of favorite materials among artisans and craftsmen
around the world.

Green Abalone : Haliotis tuberculata
Found mostly along the coasts of California and Mexico, this strikingly colored shell resembles paua abalone but is
more densely colored and figured, with deep olive greens, blues, and pinks nicely harmonizing with cream and brown.
Popular material for luthier applications.

Donkey Ear : Haliotis asinina
Also known as ass's ear, the name is based on the long, narrow and curved shape of the shell resembling a donkey's
ear. With an average length of about 9 cm, it is smaller than other shells, providing veneers and laminates with a
regular, repeated pattern. Shades of light pink and green create distinguishing iridescence of donkey ear's interior
surface. This specific species common in Southeast Asia and Pacific Islands, including the Philippines, Indonesia,
northern Australia and Taiwan.

Freshwater Shells : Margaritifera auricularia
Among a variety of freshwater clams, mussels, and snails found in rivers and lakes throughout Asia, we have carefully
selected shells that can be used in extensive applications. They come in various colors and shapes, and are more
reasonably priced than products made from marine shells.