Paua is the Maori name of the Abalone shellfish. The Paua shell is famous for its stunning colors that change when looked at from different angles. Abalone (Haliotis Iris) shells are also called Venus' ears or sea ears.
Paua shells are also known as Ormer shells (UK) or opal of the sea. Paua is the Abalone species branche that exclusively lives in New Zealand's coastal waters. It is thought that a combination of these fresh, unpolluted waters and the abundance of kelp gives the paua shell its beautiful blue, green and purple color hues.
Maori used paua shell for the eyes in their carvings. According to Maori mythology the paua eyes (mata-a-ruru) resemble the eyes of the owl. Meaning the carved being disposes of infinite wisdom and knowledge. They also referred to the stars. According to Maori beliefs their ancestors gazed down at them at night. The stars representing ancestral eyes are called 'whetu'.
Parts of paua shells were also utilized to create reflective, flashing fishing hook lures.
Even nowadays beautiful paua jewelry is made. Paua pendants, bracelets, necklaces, rings and earrings and many more. Visit this page to see the most stunning paua jewelry or to read about the legend of Tangaroa.
2 comments:
Pendant is looking nice. I am feeling happy to know about the features of this unique pendant. Its quite interesting description that I haven't heard earlier. Thanks for sharing.
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