A grey Paua Shell gemstone set into oxidised silver with entwined leaf embelishments on either side. The oxidation darkens the silver providing a contrast in the design. The necklace is 19 inch inches in length.  Also available in green  Malachite, Mother of Pearl , Amber and blue Sodalite. The  image shows grey Paua Shell with white Mother of Pearl .

Weighs: 11g   Stone Measurement: 14mm

Paua shell is found mainly in the sea waters around New Zealand . It is harvested sustainably by free divers. The mollusc which produces the shell is mainly sought after for its meat the shell being a bi-product. The New Zealand government manages the resource by allowing the harvest of a certain number per day and these must be above a specified size..

The shells may be blue or pink in colour and exhibit wonderful swirling designs. They are made from many layers of nacre created by the organism similar to the substance created by oyster pearls.

Maori legend says that Tagaroa the sea god provided the shell to the abalone mollusc to protect it creating a dull stony looking exterior  but with the wonderful colourful nacre hidden in the interior. It is said to provide calm and a clear view of events . 

Paua Shell is a birthstone for the water signs of Pisces , Aquarius , Cancer and Scorpio.