Abalone Shell Teardrop Pendant Necklace

This jewelry piece consists of an organic, teardrop-shaped pendant featuring a vibrant abalone shell inlay set within a gold-toned metal frame. The shell shows a rich iridescence with a spectrum of turquoise, deep blue, emerald green, and silver hues, characteristic of high-quality Paua shell. The metal frame features a modern, fluid 'swirl' or 'flame' design that partially wraps around the side of the shell, leading up to an integrated bail. The pendant is suspended from a thin, gold-toned cable or link chain. In terms of dimensions, the pendant appears to be approximately 1.5 to 2 centimeters in length. The condition appears fair to good, with some visible tarnish or patina on the chain links, suggesting the metal is likely a gold-plated base metal rather than solid gold. The shell inlay seems intact without major cracks, though fine surface scratches may be present consistent with age and wear. This style is consistent with late 20th-century costume jewelry, likely from the 1970s through the 1990s, often produced as artisanal or souvenir pieces in coastal regions. The craftsmanship shows mass-market quality with a focus on highlighting the natural beauty of the shell through a simple bezel-like setting.