Pearl, Silver & Other Art

Pacific Pearl shell, or Mother-of-Pearl, is a true treasure of the deep and is absolutely stunning when polished and carved. It has layers of gold or black through the silver/white pearl which seem to shift and swirl around as the carvings are turned. Pacific Pearl comes in gold lipped or black lipped varieties which often reach 10 inches or more in diameter. Pearl is almost as hard as jade so is a wonderful long lasting material for intricate carvings.

Paua which is similar to the American Abalone but much larger is a beautiful rainbow coloured shell which like pearl changes as the carving is turned. It is spectacular in the vibrancy and richness of its colour. Paua shell is often used as inlays in silver or bone carvings.

Other artists work in sterling silver and other more exotic materials so you will find lots to explore in these galleries.

For your convenience we have broken this gallery into four main sections based on the general style and meaning of the carvings displayed in each.