Abalone Shells

Abalone Shells

The shells have a beautiful pearlescent inner with a white calcareous, textured outer.

Our Abalone shells are warm water marine molluscs that are a bi-product of the food industry. They are sustainably farmed to reduce impact on their wild ecosystem. They are imported under license from the Philippines and South African Government/s to ensure responsible harvesting and population numbers. 

What are Abalone Shells?

Abalone Shells are distinctive for their beautiful mother-of-pearl inner. Abalones make it through a careful layering of calcium carbonate and a protein called conchiolin. The layering builds a structure that reflects the light in such a way to create the mesmerising iridescent mother of pearl lining. 

Abalone shells are formed by Abalone - marine mollusks that belong to the family Haliotidae. They are a popular delicacy in East Asia and in parts of the US, and there have been problems with overfishing. We source our abalone shells from sustainable farms in the Philippines and South Africa for the smallest footprint on the environment possible - the shells are a bi-product of the food industry.

What are Abalone Shells Used For?

Our customers use our abalone shells for soap dishes, crafts, or smudge ceremonies.

Abalone Shells are commonly used in jewellery crafting, where the iridescent mother-of-pearl shell is transformed into necklaces, bracelets, and other adornments.

In spiritual practices, abalone shells act as holders for smudge sticks or incense. During cleansing rituals a large abalone shell is the perfect place to rest smudge, palo santo, or incense. Not only are they beautiful, the shell can be used to represent water.

Abalone shells are also used by our customers for home decor. Prized for their distinctive appearance, they are frequently incorporated into projects from mosaics to standalone decorative pieces. 

We also often see abalone shells displayed as natural art pieces, appreciated just as they are for their intricate patterns and lustrous mother-of-pearl inner.

If you're not sure where to start, have a look at our gift sets. Many include an abalone shell as well as crystals and smudge.