Ask the Experts Paua Q&A

What's the difference between a paua shell and an abalone shell?

- Marla

Abalone is the common name for the genus Haliotis, a marine gastropod mollusk. The inner shells are made of nacre in a variety of colors that are perfect for shimmering, beautiful jewelry.

What is commonly called paua are three species of abalone that are native and restricted to New Zealand: yellow-foot or queen paua (Haliotis australis), blackfoot or rainbow (Haliotis iris) and whitefoot or virgin (Haliotis virginea). The name comes from the language of the Maori, the native people of New Zealand.