Abalam Curved Strips: Paua Abalone Ply

Paua abalone — the most colorful nacreous shell in the world — in spectacular butterfly-wing blues, greens and purples. Sought after, hard to obtain, and unforgettable once inlaid.

Abalam laminated curved strips, cut across the veneer ply sheet for deep, consistent color that will not sand away, with no natural fracture lines. Computer-cut even widths and squared ends keep joints tight. Typically 3 pieces complete one guitar soundhole rosette.

Specifications

• Shell: Haliotis iris; New Zealand
• Size: 4.75" long x .050" thick x 4.921" I.D.
• Widths: .047" – .135"
• Sold: per piece
• SKU: CURVE-PAUA

Working with this shell

Dry-fit the rosette ring first, then glue. The 4.921 inch inside diameter suits standard soundhole rosettes; trim the arc ends for a seamless circle. Sort for color match before gluing — joints nearly disappear when neighboring pieces are matched.

SURFACE INLAY ONLY: these laminated strips are .050″ thick and are made for surface inlay work — purfling, binding, carving and sign making. Not recommended for reverse glass work due to thickness.

SORRY NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING due to law, Shell SHIPS WITHIN THE UNITED STATES ONLY