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What is Paula shell?

What is Paula shell?

Pāua is the Māori name given to three New Zealand species of large edible sea snails, marine gastropod molluscs which belong to the family Haliotidae (in which there is only one genus, Haliotis), known in the United States and Australia as abalone, and in the United Kingdom as ormer shells.

Is Paua shell rare?

So, what exactly are Paua shells? Because these shells are only found in this one area of the world, Pāua are both rare and much sought after.

What does the paua shell represent?

The Maori believe the Paua will bring connectivity and harmony to relationships. The way the colors of the shell shift in the light is also a symbol of change and transition in Maori culture.

What is the difference between abalone and paua shell?

What’s the difference between a paua shell and an abalone shell? They are one and the same, the difference in name is based on where the shell is from or who is naming it. Abalone is derived from the Spanish word “Abulón” and paua from the New Zealand Maori word “paua.”

What animal eats Paua?

About Paua

Appearance: Roughly oval shaped shell, with a row of several holes used for breathing and reproduction.
Food: Seaweed.
Habitat: Sub-tidal, rocky coastline.
Predators: Crabs, lobsters, octopuses, starfish and fish

Is abalone shell expensive?

The quantities fished are thus limited in comparison to demand, and the price of wild abalone can run as high as $500USD per kilo, depending on size. The fact that abalone shells are quite heavy only compounds the issue, as a kilo caught roughly translates into 250 grams of meat.

Can I take paua shells out of New Zealand?

It is fine to take them out of New Zealand – indeed many souvenirs contain some, but Singapore and the Netherlands may object, so please ask their immigration authorities.

What are the benefits of abalone shell?

Abalone Shell is said to enhance feelings of peace, compassion and love. It has a lovely warm, gentle vibration. It is great in times of tough emotional issues, soothing the nerves and encouraging a calm demeanour. It is said to gently help open our psychic and intuitive connections.

What does a paua shell mean to you?

According to them, this shell brings good luck, prosperity, and peace to the wearer. Medicinal lore say that these shells were used to treat a number of ailments and health conditions.

How many grades of paua shell are there?

There are 12 grades of Paua shell and Ariki uses only the top grade for its jewellery collection. Paua is often referred to as the Sea Opal due to its blue/green colourings and the incredible swirls that create individual patterns on each and every piece of jewellery.

How is paua shell used by ariki New Zealand?

About Paua shell. Paua Shell (Haliotis Iris) is a Natural Sustainable Resource. Ariki sources Paua shell directly from the divers who hold Paua quota. Paua is protected by a quota system and by the control of the equipment used by the quota holders who must “free dive” without the use of air tanks for their quotas.

Why are paua shells used as a wedding theme?

Paua is also used as a theme in many weddings. The invitations, décor, and even the cake―everything is planned keeping in mind the beautiful colors of paua. Paua shells are unique, beautiful, and considered extremely lucky. Whether this is true or just a traditional story that is passed down generations, no one knows.