What is the difference between paua shell and abalone? Paua is a high grade of abalone from New Zealand where abalone is called paua in the Maori language. Paua shell is often sold in a more processed form: as is the case with these cabs they have been sliced thin placed on a backing and polished.

These cabs were made for Leeleeko Jewelry. The three sizes of cabochons we offer are shown together in the image on the right, in order to show their size relative to one another.