More About Paua Abalone Shell

The material used in the making of this exquisite pen is Paua Abalone Shell. Paua is a species of Abalone that is unique to the waters around New Zealand and provides the most color in its shell.  It is regarded by New Zealanders as a treasure and legend has it that it was a gift from the God of the Sea. It lives in the rocky shoreline around New Zealand and is highly sought after for its color and beauty.  Jewelry is commonly made from Paua shell due to its brilliance and beautiful appearance. The material for this pen was sliced and cast in a high quality acrylic around the pen body allowing the true brilliant color of the material to show through. This is a rare material in a handmade pen and not very many of these are made.This material is sometimes combined with a dye to bring about unique colors and patterns.