Abalone Shell 3x5mm Rondelle Bead - 15-16 Inch Puff Oval they grow inside the shells

they grow inside the shells of certain species of oysters and clams

pale green or copper red

Microscopic Quartz crystals intermingle with Chalcedony

and rutile

Abalone Shell 3x5mm Rondelle Bead - 15-16 Inch Puff Oval they grow inside the shellsAbalone Shell is strong and is made of stacked calcium carbonate tiles. When the abalone shell is struck, the tiles slide instead of shattering absorbing the energy of the blow. The inner layer of the shell is composed of nacre (mother of pearl), which in many species is highly iridescent, which make the shells attractive as decorative objects, jewelry, and as a source of colorful mother of pearl.