Of course none of my blogs would be complete without our beloved Paua Shell. Although in most places around the world this sea mollusc would be called Abalone.
Abalone shells have many names: Haliotis Iris, Paua Shells, Nacre, Mother-of-Pearl, Aulon, and Sea ear to name a few.
But we here in New Zealand have taken on the native New Zealand people the Māori name of Paua.
It is found in several distinct places and cultures around the world, which explains it’s many names, coming from several languages.
Whatever you call it, there’s no doubting its beauty. They are also fantastically individual – no two abalone shells are quite the same.
It is an organic gemstone, the same category as amber and pearl.
Abalone or Paua Shell molluscs can repair minor damage to their own shells. This might be caused by other sea creatures or even humans trying to remove them from rocks.
Perhaps this is where the abalone symbolism of strength and healing comes from. Not only exceptionally strong, the abalone or Paua shell is exceptionally beautiful and deeply symbolic.
As I have mentioned in previous blogs Paua Shell or Abalone with vibrant, iridescent shells are the most popular for use in Jewellery. Turning these shells to the light can reveal many hues, from turquoise, peacock green and blue to rose pink, purple and gold shimmer.
Which is why our Ariki New Zealand Jewellery is so uniquely beautiful.
Our Native New Zealand People, Māori, have many beliefs around this treasure or Taonga from the sea – They believe the shell strengthens the body and the heart of the wearer. With a stronger heart and body, the person is thought to be able to communicate their feelings more clearly.
The Māori believe the Paua will bring connectivity and harmony to relationships.
The way the colours of the shell shift in the light is also a symbol of change and transition in Māori culture.
Perhaps you have had a big life change and found this article for a reason. Abalone or Paua Shell New Zealand jewellery might be the symbol to represent the change, and to protect you in the next phase of your life, as it does for Māori people.