Back when I was a little mollusk in the 50's and 60's my Dad was a commercial abalone diver off the shores of Southern California. What is abalone? Abalone is a member of the same mollusk family that includes clams, oysters and mussels. The abalone shell is the crown jewel of the Pacific; its iridescent colors are enchanting.

Where Abalone Live

Abalone is pronounced AB-a-lone-ney. These highly prized mollusks are found mostly in California, Japan and other Pacific regions. Abalone like to clamp tightly to rocky surfaces and dine on the algae floating by - but life is dangerous for them too because they have predators who seek them out for fine dining (sea otters and humans are their main predators). They are a great delicacy in many cultures, so much so that some countries (particularly Japan) have large abalone farms where they are raised in captivity.

Mother Of Pearl Is Another Abalone Name

Some call the Abalone's iridescent shell lining Mother of Pearl (which is what the lining of the oyster is also called). This lustrous lining is made of alternating layers of calcium carbonate and conchiolin. Abalone shell lining has been highly prized by jewelry makers for centuries; perhaps because it reminds us of the beauties of the ocean on a sunny day.

My Life With Abalone

My childhood beach day memories abound with the images of the amazing mollusk, abalone. After they were collected and brought from the beach, they would slowly move across our yard where they waited to be shucked, sliced and pounded into tender tasty dinner for family and friends.

Early Abalone Shell Jewelry

My father made abalone shell jewelry as far back as I can remember. He courted my mother in high school by making her California abalone jewelry. I still wear my first abalone belt made for me by my Dad when I was eight years old!

Trinidad Trading Company Carries Abalone Shell Jewelry

The Trinidad Trading Company carries an original line of abalone shell jewelry and each piece of California handcrafted abalone jewelry is a one-of-a-kind creation using only natural shell, Czech glass beads and sterling silver ear wires. Their striking beauty fits well with today's styles and they are both popular and affordable.

Visit Our Abalone Shell Jewelry Catalog

Please peruse our current collection of abalone jewelry. You will find California red abalone in oval & disk shapes and also in beautiful tear drops. Earrings come in small (3/4") to large (2") sizes. The rare Northern California red abalone is coral hued with rich pearlescent cream tones.

Colors of Abalone Shells Jewelry

Many styles are also available in ever popular green abalone. This shell offers a shimmering palette of ocean blues and greens to sunset pinks and purples, all found in one amazing piece. Color is emotional and you want to wear jewelry that makes you feel good, as well as look great! Abalone accessorizes well with a myriad of colors; it can be casual or elegant. Wear abalone jewelry with gold or silver and you'll find it is as versatile as you are. 
 
Abalone Shell Jewelry Is For All Ages

Our abalone jewelry collection is timeless. Give this jewelry to a teenager and they will still love it 50 years from now. Wear California abalone jewelry and bring the beauty of the Pacific with you wherever you are.
 

Also see our article on Chuck Snell and his Abalone Shell Jewelry