Paua Shell Earrings

1 in stock

Description

Paua Shell Earrings feature natural shell beads & real 18k gold plated 925 Sterling Silver hooks.

Each earring weighs 2.9g (0.102oz) and measures 11*45mm (0.433*1.772in)

Designed and crafted by Silvi Simberg x 2024 as part of the Little parts of the Whole Shebang Collection;

“If we embrace the beauty of change, then we open ourselves to a world of endless possibilities, allowing our true colors to shine through in harmony with the flow of life.”

Paua Shell Information

Paua shell beads showcase stunning iridescent colors, ranging from deep blues and greens to vibrant purples. These beads, made from the shells of abalone, stand out for their unique patterns and striking luster. Jewelry makers often use paua shell to create eye-catching pieces, adding a touch of oceanic beauty to necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

Formation

Paua shells form through the natural processes of mollusk growth. Abalone, a type of marine snail, secretes layers of nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, to protect its soft body. Over time, these layers accumulate, creating the beautiful shell that we see today. The vibrant colors of paua shells come from microscopic structures within the nacre, which refract light and create stunning visual effects.

Fashion and Jewelry

Paua shell beads are highly sought after in jewelry design for their colorful, eye-catching appearance. Artisans often cut these shells into various shapes, such as rounds, ovals, or squares, to create unique jewelry pieces. Paua beads work beautifully in both casual and formal settings, complementing a range of styles. When combined with metals like silver or gold, they create striking contrast and enhance their natural beauty.

History, Mythology, and Symbolism

In Māori culture, paua shells hold significant meaning. They represent strength, protection, and beauty, often appearing in traditional Māori art and jewelry. The shells are also associated with the ocean, symbolizing life, prosperity, and abundance. Many people today value paua shell beads for their connection to nature and the sea, believing they carry positive energy and promote emotional balance.

Mining, Production, and Applications

Paua shells are harvested primarily in New Zealand, where divers collect them from coastal waters. Sustainable practices are essential to ensure the health of abalone populations. Once harvested, skilled artisans clean and polish the shells before cutting them into beads. Paua shell beads find applications in jewelry, crafts, and decorative items, allowing their vibrant colors and patterns to shine in various creative projects.

Additional information

Beads

Seashell

Colour

Birthstone

Zodiac Stone

Hooks

18k Real Gold-Plated 925 Sterling Silver (0.5 micron 3k)

Findings

Stainless Steel / Jewellery-Grade / PVD-Plated

Origin

Handmade in Estonia, 2024

Care Guide

  • Cleaning: Gently clean the 18k gold-plated hooks and stainless steel components with a soft, dry cloth. To clean the semi-precious stone beads, use a damp cloth to wipe them and dry thoroughly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning solutions that could damage the gold plating or stones.
  • Storage: Store the earrings in a dry, cool place, ideally in a fabric pouch or jewelry box. To avoid scratching, keep them separate from other jewelry items. Always store earrings away from extreme temperatures and humidity to preserve the gold plating and stone quality.
  • Gold Plating Care: 18k gold plating is delicate and can wear off with prolonged exposure to moisture, lotions, perfumes, or harsh chemicals. To extend the life of the gold plating, remove earrings before swimming, showering, or applying beauty products. Clean the gold-plated hooks gently with a soft cloth to maintain their shine.
  • Stainless Steel & Stone Bead Care:
    • Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is durable and resistant to tarnish. However, it may still discolor if exposed to moisture or chemicals. Wipe stainless steel components regularly with a cloth to maintain their luster.
    • Semi-Precious Stone Beads: Stone beads are naturally sturdy but may be sensitive to chemicals and extreme temperatures. Avoid exposing them to perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics. Gently wipe them with a soft cloth to remove dirt, and avoid soaking them in water. Stones like lapis lazuli, turquoise, and agate can be particularly sensitive to prolonged moisture.
  • General Durability: Handle with care to avoid impacts or abrasions that could damage the gold plating or stones. Avoid wearing the earrings during activities that involve excessive sweating, such as exercise, or sleeping, as this can cause wear over time.

Size Guide

size-guide-earring

Oathfeed Classic Design

6 & 10mm beads, in some cases the size of the stone beads may vary +-1mm.

Hook lengths range between 1cm basic hooks, 1.5+cm English Locks, 2cm silver hooks – refer to the product photos.

In newer designs, the stainless steel spacer daisies, bead caps and small beads contribute 3-4mm extra length (refer to product photo)

size-guide-earring

Weight Priciples

In principle I keep the weight below 5 grams per earring, so it doesn’t stretch or hurt your ears even if you wear it the whole day. Occasionally, for some designs, that weight limit exceeds by a gram – every pair has their specific weight marked under the overview tab.

Note that some earring hooks have thicker wires, and if you are not used to wearing earrings daily, using them will feel uncomfortable in the beginning.