Abalam Laminated Sheet: Paua Abalone — Surface Inlay

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 veneer-ply sheet, approximately 9.5 x 5.5 inches. Unlike thin veneer, Abalam fuses shell layers into a thick, stable ply: deeper and more consistent color that will not sand away, fewer and less obvious joints, and no natural fracture lines — it breaks evenly where solid shell would follow a fault.

Specifications

• Shell: Haliotis iris; New Zealand
• Sheet size: approx. 9.5" x 5.5"
• Thicknesses: .020" 2-ply – .185"
• Sold: per sheet
• SKU: VP-PAUA

Working with this shell

Saw, rout or carve like a dense hardwood; the laminated ply cuts cleanly without the fracture lines of solid shell. Sand through grits and polish for a deep wet look. Do not soak to soften — test any wet technique on scrap first. Wear a respirator: shell dust is hazardous.

Please note: Joints less visible; very good for larger inlays.

SURFACE INLAY ONLY: this laminated sheet is thicker than veneer stock and is made for surface inlay work — carving, sign making, and inlay into wood, stone and similar surfaces. Not recommended for reverse glass work due to thickness.

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