Please help ID this species of abalone?

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I just got this stuff, I think I got a good deal on it. I'd like to find out the species and approx. value, and any tips on how to use it's dish shape on a knife handle would be appreciated. I guess fill in the hollow with epoxy, and sand it flat? The oval is 3-1/4" x 2-1/2". I paid $3 for it, and $2 more for a smaller piece.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Once it is cut up like that it is hard to ID the species.
What can you do with it......make a display stand for a small knife or make a belt buckle.
Mother of Pearl is actually abalone, but of a flatter variety.