The Paua shell is a tourist must-have. I bet you've got a piece somewhere in the form of a piece of jewellery, a paperweight for the study or an ashtray for the front room. This sparkly abalone souvenir can be found around the New Zealand waters and shines all the colours you could possibly want it to. Just like a hologram card the paua shell gleams different hues when viewed from different angles. Beware, this can be very mesmerizing. The Maori sometimes use Paua shell pieces to decorate the eyes of their warrior carvings. I think this gives them life - and a haunting psychedelic presence..just me? I have a little model one which sits on my dresser and watches me while i sleep.
There was a time in New Zealand when Paua jewellery was considered cheap and 'tacky' but times they are a changing and there is now a booming Paua shell business. I myself have an over sized paua ring, which i like to flash on the tube, like my 'I'm-a-Kiwi' calling card. A little piece of home.
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