Ancient Kauri Wood Platter with Paua shell inlay - Kauri [Agathis australis] is a native New Zealand hardwood prized for its timber and grandeur.
The beautiful Paua shell is a species of abalone (Haliotis iris). Found only in the seas around New Zealand, this marine mollusk is the most colorful of all the abalone shells. Colors vary from greens and pinks to purples and blues. Some even have gold or crimson toning. The colors change when viewed from different angles, with an iridescence similar to that of Mother of Pearl shell, but far more brilliantly colored. |