Object Description
A collection of striking large abalone shell specimens from a private collection, each presented on a bespoke painted plaster display plinth.
The shells have an open spiral structure and iridescent rainbow-like exterior that glisten in the sun. Their colours seem to change from different angles.
A stunning decorative collection to be placed near a window basking in natural light.
Some of the specimens are in natural condition, while others have been polished.
Abalone Shells
Abalone shells are an important element in numerous Indigenous cultures around the world, particularly in Africa and the Northwest American coast. Typically found in New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, North America, and Japan, varying in size.
They are now generally used for ornaments in modern culture but were once used as currency in some communities.
Thanks to their layers of nacre, the same substance pearls are made from, abalone shells gleam on the inside and out.
Sometimes mistaken for mother of pearl, abalone actually has distinctive differences; the shells are darker in colour and a grey background.
Additional information
Four of the shells are on medium sized custom display plinths and one on a small plinth.
Medium sized plinth: ø17cm x height 6.5cm.
Small sized plinth: ø10.5 x H6.5cm
Some are marked with collection numbers.
Overall dimensions are for specimens and bases.
Additional dimensions
Smallest shell (collection number 1363 – picture ) – Height 13cm x width 11cm x Depth 5cm (5.12in x 4.33in x 1.97in)
Largest shell (seen in picture 4) – Height 18cm x width 15cm x depth 7cm (7.09in x 5.91in x 2.76in)
Weight for specimens – 1.02kg