Abalone shells are a common and traditional bowl to burn energy clearing plants such as sage and sage sticks, palo santo and more. This is done to create sacred space, clear negative energy and lift your mood. The shell is easy to carry throughout your space and catches cinders and ash from the burning herbs. Using an abalone shell connects to the water element, while the herb represents earth, the smoke represents air, and lighting the herb brings in the fire. Using all four elements in any kind of spiritual practice is thought to bring you into harmony with the earth.