This is a genuine mid-century Lucite trivet featuring real abalone shell pieces gathered by divers from the Pacific Ocean. Made by Hyler Enterprises in Monterey, California, this piece is both a functional hot plate and a beautiful window into 1960s California coastal kitsch—when bringing the ocean into your home meant real shells embedded in clear resin.
Details
- Era: 1960s–1970s (peak California souvenir era)
- Item type: Trivet / hot plate / coaster / decorative tabletop piece
- Materials: Cast Lucite (heat-resistant acrylic resin) with real abalone shell pieces
- Color: Vibrant yellow-green lucite with iridescent abalone shells in cream, gold, and natural shell tones
- Size / Measurements: 6" diameter; approximately 1–1.5" thick
- Texture / Finish: High-gloss smooth lucite surface, shells visible and embedded throughout
- Manufacturer: Hyler Enterprises, Monterey, California
- Style notes: Mid-century Modern, Retro, California Coastal, 1960s Americana
Condition Grade: Good
Positives
- Original label intact and clearly legible on underside
- Lucite resin is clear, intact, and bright
- Shell pieces well-embedded and visible throughout
- Vibrant yellow-green color holds strong
- Functional and study; no cracks or breaks
Issues / Wear
- Light surface scratches and wear marks consistent with age and kitchen use
- Minor dust or residue in resin (visible in close photos) typical of 50+ years of storage
- Some edges show gentle wear from handling and time
See all photos—sold as pictured.
Condition Grade Key
- Near Fine — minimal wear; clean.
- Very Good — light wear; clean; minor flaws.
- Good — noticeable wear.
- Fair — heavy wear; complete but worn; priced accordingly.
Collector's Notes
Hyler Enterprises' "Shells Gathered by Divers from The Pacific Ocean" trivets were quintessential 1960s California souvenirs—the kind of kitschy-elegant pieces that celebrate the era's optimism about nature, design, and the American coast. These pieces have become increasingly collectible as mid-century Lucite finds its place in serious design collections and retro home décor. The fact that this one still has its original label is a big plus for documentation and authenticity.
Whether you're furnishing a retro kitchen, building a mid-century collection, or just love the idea of real ocean shells trapped in time, this trivet brings genuine California coast charm—and a functional piece for your everyday shelf.
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Disclaimer
All items are vintage and may show signs of age, wear, or use consistent with their history. Photos show the exact condition of each piece—please review them carefully, as they are part of the description.
While I do my best to capture colors accurately, your monitor or device screen may display colors slightly differently from the actual item.
Please Note:
These pieces come from estate collections and have been surface cleaned. You may wish to perform additional cleaning depending on your preference.
