Recently Sold (EBR010)

Pan Pacific- Estate Gold Plated Carved Paua Shell (Abalone) Maple Leaf Brooch.  This lovely brooch is crafted from gold plate over metal. This brooch features 3 genuine carved Paua shells, and vintage styling. This brooch is comprised of 3 beautiful iridescent green Paua shells, which are carved into maple leaf motifs. There is a pin on the back of the brooch. which locks into place securely. This estate brooch would make a perfect gift or addition to any jewelry collection. 

Note: Original Box included. 

History: In pre-European times and before the onset of commercial fishing, pāua was a significant kaimoana (seafood) for Māori and is still considered a taonga (treasured) species. In Māori mythology, pāua was created as a gift from Tangaroa, the god of the sea.

Paua is a species of abalone found along New Zealand shores, and as far north as the Philippines. The word Paua is actually Maori (a tribe in New Zealand) for Abalone. It is also known as rainbow abalone because it is the most colourful of all the abalone shells.

Is Paua shell rare? Yes it is! Pearls from paua shells are quite rare and have their own unique beauty. Although very different from the Australian White Pearl Oyster and the French Polynesia Black Pearl Oyster (Both Bivalve Shell Species), Paua also secretes calcium carbonate to stop the discomfort from an intrusive grain of sand.

The technology behind gold plated jewelry is credited to Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1805, he discovered the process for electroplating. It was quickly adopted for jewelry styles, with many Victorian jewelry pieces using gold plating.

Measurements: Brooch 42.00 mm x 33.50 mm 

Stone Size: Paua Shell 18.00 mm x 15.50 mm     14.00 mm x 13.00 mm 

Weight: 2.40 grams 

Condition: Excellent   Note: Pristine

Origin: Canada          Shell: Most likely New Zealand 

Date: Circa 1990