The abalone shell is a gift of the sea. These shells of the Haliotis diversicolor species come from the coastal waters of Vietnam, and every single piece is different: the iridescent inner surface shimmers in blue, purple or green depending on how the light catches it. This is the L size, between 16 and 18 centimetres, weighing about 250 grams – the measurement is a range rather than an exact figure, because nature is not standardised. You receive a piece that nobody else holds in quite the same form.
Where the practice of the smudging shell comes from
In Native American tradition, smudging – the burning of dried herbs – has been a living practice for thousands of years. Bundles of white sage, sweetgrass and palo santo were often lit in an abalone shell. The deep cavity of the shell holds the smouldering plant material safely, and the natural holes let air reach the embers, so the herbs burn evenly. The four elements meet in this object: the shell is water, the plant is earth, the ember is fire and the rising smoke is air.
How to use it
We recommend the shell for burning white sage, sweetgrass, cedar and palo santo chips. Place a thin layer of sand or ash at the bottom, light the tip of a sage bundle, and once it glows, lay it inside the shell. You can direct the smoke into the corners of the room with a feather or with your hand. Many people use it after moving into a new home, or at the end of a long, heavy day to refresh the air.
Why every piece is different
Abalone is a natural marine product, so the size, thickness and small irregularities along the rim vary from shell to shell. Sometimes traces of algae cling to it – you can gently brush these off under running water with a soft brush. The stated weight of about 250 g is indicative only; the actual piece may differ by a few grams. Many of our customers value exactly this uniqueness.
How to set it down safely
During use the bottom of the shell warms up, so place it on a heat-resistant base such as a ceramic tile or a wooden round. Choose a stable, level surface where falling embers cannot reach curtains, books or pets. After use, let it cool down completely before you pick it up or store it.
Cleaning and storage
Once cool, tip out the ash and wipe the shell with a dry, soft cloth. For a deeper clean, rinse it with lukewarm water; avoid hot water and dish soap, as these can dull the inner iridescence. Store it in a dry place, ideally on a soft cloth. If anyone in the household is sensitive to materials of marine origin, it is worth keeping that in mind.