Marine Opal & Black Mussel Shell Crescent Moon Earrings with Sterling Silver Accents by Zealandia Designs circa 1990s

This is from a group of earrings purchased from a high-end beauty salon in South Florida and designed by Zealandia Designs circa early 1990's.  They have never been worn and are on the original card.  There is only one pair of this style left; when it's gone, it's gone!

They are made with black mussel shell and marine opal (also called paua or mother of pearl) with dangling sterling silver accents from Indonesia.  Paua has been used by the Maori people for centuries.  It is also called marine opal or sea opal because of its iridescence. Approximately 1.5" x 1.25".

It is believed that all abalone varieties (including paua) strengthen the body as well as the heart. That's one reason why Māori often give each other paua shells. According to them, this shell brings luck, prosperity, and peace to the wearer.