Found only in the seas around New Zealand, paua Shell is a gem-quality mineral that comes from its eponymous mollusk. The material can seem dull from one side, but on the other side, it shines with marvelous metallic colors. The shells are sometimes polished and sold whole, but they're also used for various souvenirs and decorative objects.
Hardness:
3.5
Density:
2.7 - 2.89 g/cm³
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Properties
Values
Market Price
How to Care
Characteristics
Cultural
Common Questions
General Info About Paua Shell
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Physical Properties of Paua Shell
Luster
Pearly, Greasy
Diaphaneity
Opaque
Colors
Blue, green, pink, purple, silver, black
Magnetism
Non-magnetic
Fracture
Uneven
Streak
Black
Crystal System
Orthorhombic, Trigonal
Hardness
3.5 , Soft
Density
2.7 - 2.89 g/cm³, Normal Weight
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Chemical Properties of Paua Shell
Chemical Classification
Carbonates
Formula
CaCO3
Elements listed
Ca, C, O
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Rarity
Easy to obtain
Collection Recommendation
4.2 out of 5
Popularity
3.9
Aesthetic
4.3
Rarity
3.7
Sci-Cultural Value
4
The Market Price of Paua Shell
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Rough/Tumbled Price
Fixed Price
$0.03 - $0.5 g
How to Care for Paua Shell?
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Durability
Nondurable
Scratch resistance
Poor
Toughness of Paua Shell
Poor
Fair
Good
Excellent
The fair toughness of paua Shell is attributed to its structure of hexagonal platelets of aragonite, which can be prone to cracking and chipping under normal wear and tear.
Stability of Paua Shell
Sensitive
Stable
Paua Shell is prone to discoloration and physical damage under common conditions, making it sensitive for daily use.
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Characteristics of Paua Shell
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Composition of Paua Shell
Aragonite, macromolecules, proteins, sugars
Cultural Significance of Paua Shell
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Uses of Paua Shell
Paua Shell is a type of mother of pearl that has iridescent qualities that make it a popular decorative material. This material comes from the shells of a sea snail which is collected commercially, under strict sustainability laws, for its shells and meat. The whole shells are used ornamentally or sculpted, and cut shells are made into a wide variety of jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Healing Properties of Paua Shell
If you're looking for peace and tranquility, paua Shell supposedly works wonders. Its gentle vibration is said to instill warm, positive energy and remove negativity. Maori people believe paua Shell increases the power of the heart and body of the possessor and allows more transparent communication of feelings. This effect is said to lead to greater inner harmony and stronger relationships.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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