The ormer is a smaller relative of the abalone (found off the coasts of New Zealand). The Channel Islands being its most northerly habitat, due to excessive fishing over the years it is very rare and can only be collected by shore gatherers at specified low tides of the year. The ormers attach themselves to the rocks and when found they are prised off with a metal hook. By law the smallest you can collect is 8cm long.

At home the mollusc is removed from the shell, tenderised and then usually casseroled, the flavour being totally unique.

These replica shells are cast in silver or gold and handmade into jewellery or keepsakes.