Abalone shells have been the stars of jewelry since ancient times. The iridescent surface of these shells causes them to glow, making the wearer feel as if they are wearing pieces from the ocean. Iridescence is a rainbow pattern of shiny colors on the surface, primarily consisting of green, peacock blue, and purple shades. Abalone shells are so unique that each has a distinct pattern unlike any other. Just like a fingerprint from the ocean, each shell features its own individual design.

Abalone shells are the homes of a huge gastropod mollusk found in coastal regions like New Zealand, North America, Japan, and Australia. There are 57 known species of abalone around the world, and their distribution across various coastal regions has led to different names for the shell.

The word "abalone" comes from North American Indian tribes, but other names include Haliotis Iris, Nacre, Mother-of-Pearl, Aulon, and Sea Ear. The global distribution of abalone shells explains its different names.

How do the shells get their color?

Abalones live in the ocean and eat seaweed. As they grow, they make this tough inner coating made up of nacre layers, also known as mother-of-pearl. As the shell grows, it forms the cool concentric circles of rainbow colors.

When the lights hit the shell, due to uneven thickness of layers and diffraction phenomena, it emits different colors.

The color visible to the eye is dependent on the angle from which the shell is observed. That's also where the shine comes from, and that's why each shell is a work of art.

The Symbolism of Abalone Shells Across Cultures:

Abalone shells hold significant spiritual and historical meanings across different cultures.

North American Tribes:

Abalone shells symbolize spiritual power and protection; they were widely used in the spiritual and everyday activities of North American tribes. Various tribes used abalone shells as currency alongside turquoise and other mineral gems.

They weren't simply gorgeous; they were also emblems of the ocean's beauty and strength.

In North America, tribes like the Chumash and Apache utilized abalone shells in smudging rituals. They would infuse them with sage to purge negative energy or ward off evil spirits and illnesses.

Symbol of feminine strength

Some Native American tribes utilized them in puberty ceremonies to honor girls becoming women and to recognize their strength and femininity. The shells seemed to have a strong, holy energy about them. People thought that abalone could keep sickness and evil spirits away. They would employ the shells in some kind of ritual, maybe related to apotropaic magic, to keep bad things away. Abalone shells are a sparkling gift from the gentle waves of the sea.

The Sacred Paua: Abalone Shell Jewelry in Maori Tribes

The Maori people call abalone shells paua shells. They eat the meat of abalone shells, which is a delicacy in New Zealand.

Maori in New Zealand strongly believe in their spiritual powers of peace, relaxation, and feeling connected to nature. They think people who wear these shells heal their hearts and make them strong.

They even felt they could heal people. For example, they could keep you safe and balanced. Abalone or Paua Shell mollusks have a natural tendency to repair damages to their shells caused by other sea creatures or even humans.

Perhaps such behavior is the reason abalone symbolizes strength and healing. The abalone, also known as the Paua shell, is not only exceptionally strong but also stunning and deeply symbolic.

The Maori also believe that paua shells establish connection and harmony in relationships.

The process of color change in light is also a symbol of change and transition in Maori culture.

The Maori termed their abalone shells "paua" and used them in ceremonies to honor their sea god, Tangaroa. They prayed for wealth and safety.

Modern shell jewelry trend 2025

In 2025, shell jewelry trends are on the rise. The shells used in jewelry making primarily are pucca shells, cowrie shells, and abalone shells. Abalone shells are more common in everyday jewelry because of their unique color schemes and designs. There are blues, greens, purples, pinks, and even touches of gold. Jewelers also use colors like turquoise and peacock blue to build designs that really stand out.

Storage and cleaning

Gently wipe the surface and avoid soaking it in water. Rinse with flowy lukewarm water. Dry after washing with a soft cloth. Do not expose the product to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or prolonged sunlight, as these can damage its natural luster and shine. Store abalone jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box.