Abalone pearls are produced by a type of marine gastropod (sea snail) belonging to the genus Haliotis—a name derived from Greek meaning “sea ear,” referring to their distinctive ear-shaped shell. These shells feature a row of holes along the outer edge, leading to their alternate name, ear shells.

Like other marine gastropods, abalones can produce pearls. However, natural abalone pearls are extremely rare, making them highly valuable.

Color and Appearance

• The color of abalone pearls reflects the vibrant interior of the shell.

• Common colors include:

  • Cream

  • Blue

  • Green

  • Red

  • Purple

• These colors are influenced partly by the abalone’s diet.

• The most desirable pearls exhibit iridescent hues, especially:

  • Blue

  • Violet

  • Green

Shape

• Perfectly round (spherical) abalone pearls are extremely rare.

• Most natural pearls are:

  • Horn-shaped

  • Baroque (irregular)

Species and Shell Characteristics

• There are around 100 species of abalone.

• Notable examples:

  • Haliotis rufescens (Red Abalone)

  • Haliotis iris (Paua / Rainbow Abalone)

These species are known for their vivid iridescent inner shells, composed of nacre, also called mother-of-pearl.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Abalone mother-of-pearl has been used for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence supporting its long history.

• The Māori of New Zealand have traditionally used it in art and ornaments.

• Polished shells and pearl ornaments are still popular souvenirs in New Zealand.

Largest Recorded Abalone Pearls

• Largest pearl (Guinness World Record):

  • Weight: 718.50 carats

  • Shape: Iridescent, baroque, horn-shaped

  • Size: 14 × 8 cm

  • Found in: Mendocino, California (2010)

  • Discovered by: Dat Vi Truong

• Previous record:

  • “Big Pink” pearl

  • Weight: 469.13 carats

  • Discovered by: Wesley Rankin

Culturing Abalone Pearls

Culturing abalone pearls is highly challenging because:

• Abalones are extremely sensitive

• They do not tolerate handling well

• They are sensitive to temperature changes

• Piercing their flesh can cause fatal bleeding

Result:

• Full spherical cultured pearls are rare

• Most cultured pearls are:

  • Blister pearls (attached to the shell)

  • Mabé pearls (half-spheres)

These are sometimes assembled with a mother-of-pearl backing and polished to enhance luster.

Geographic Sources

Blister pearls have been cultured in:

• New Zealand (Paua)

• California, USA

• Japan

Abalone as Food and Medicine

• Abalone meat is considered a delicacy in:

  • Japan

  • China

  • Hong Kong

• Traditionally believed to have:

  • Medicinal properties

  • Aphrodisiac effects

  • Benefits for eye health

• Japan has exported dried abalone to China since the Qing Dynasty.

Ama Divers (Traditional Pearl Divers)

• The Ama are traditional Japanese female divers.

• Key characteristics:

  • Free-dive up to 25 meters

  • Hold breath for up to 2 minutes

  • Practice dates back over 1,000 years

Current Status:

• Both ama divers and abalone populations are declining

• Many divers today are elderly but remain active

• They collect:

  • Abalone

  • Seaweed

  • Occasionally pearls

Their work inspired the romantic term “pearl divers.”

Conclusion

Abalone pearls are treasured worldwide for their:

• Rarity

• Unique shapes

• Vibrant iridescence

Beyond pearls, abalones provide:

• Nutritional value

• Cultural significance

• Decorative materials (mother-of-pearl)

They represent a complete natural treasure—combining beauty, history, and utility.