For generations, the people of Niihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. One of a kind handmade jewelry including Ni'ihau shell and Sunrise Shell necklaces, earrings and bracelets all locally made at great prices. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59045746', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui. However, books about the Forbidden Island are some of the best Niihau souvenirs. Take a look on Ebay at items from seller butch6868. (25% off), Sale Price $1,485.00 They arent stones, of course, but TINY SHELLS that are rare and precious. I've bought one at the Trading Post, two at Spouting Horn, one at Kaua`i Gold, one at another shop in the Coco Marketplace, now closed, and one on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Clasp is fixed currently with a granulated cowry but can be doubled and worn as a shorter 20 strand look. Enjoy your search for the perfect one! Over the years I have helped thousands of people find the perfect place to stay on Kauai whilst also advising on everything from places to propose to the best Na Pali boat ride. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, Emperors Emporium has the largest selection of island-inspired jewelry, clothing and Red Dirt shirts, gifts. Their display of vintage lei is quite interesting, too. Niihau, Hawaiian Ni'ihau, volcanic island, Kauai county, Hawaii, U.S. Niihau lies 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Kauai island. Niihau Shell Leis is another exciting book you may bring home with you. Expect to see knockoff s with slightly different labels. Francesca. The smallest of the populated Hawaiian Islands, Niihau has an area of 70 square miles (180 square km). While you are shelling, you may reflect on the beach where the old classic movie South Pacific was filmed and Mitzi Gaynor singing gonna wash that man right out of my hair!. Photo: Drawing by W. Ellis of Ni`ihau and Lehua in 1778 Ni'ihau Shell Lei - a Part of Ni'ihau Culture for Centuries Is it legal to collect shells in Hawaii? Kahelelani are the tiniest and most prized of the shells used to create Hawaiian shell leis. This piece features nearly every color of Kahelelani and Momi. Vintage momi shells were gathered in early 1990's. They are high luster, with sparkling brilliance and glass-like feel and surface textures. It's our 25th wedding anniversary gift and I could not be more excited! Diamonds and platinum may be a sign of luxury in the U.S. Mainland, but in Hawaii it's Ni'ihau shell jewelry. By Kevin Whitton, author of Moon Hawaii. A Sunrise Shell on Kauai looks like a Sunrise.a half moon of yellows and oranges and reds with the shape above. With all the beauty of nature~, Hi there, thanks for the comment. The bracelet is an optional extension to the lei. This is a sample of the lei varieties that we create and curate as heirlooms. Item #195, Ni'ihau Designer Tahitian Pearl Bracelet sewn with high quality Akala Pua Kahelelani and A Grade Tahitian Pearls. Answer 11 of 14: Are there any beaches where visitors can find the beautiful Sunrise shells? I remember a couple of years ago being impressed by the small collection of leis at the ukulele store in Koloa town, but I don't think that collection exists anymore. The necklaces can sell for an average of $125 to $25,000, and state law protects the Niihau label. The color and size matching, plus the graduated thickness of the lei is really superb. Without a doubt, Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha should be in any Hawaiian music fans collection. Yikes! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59044001', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kauai, nor Oahu, but I bought mine at Maui Hands in Paia as I wanted to make certain to get an authentic Niihau shell lei. Hypoallergenic 14K gold ear wire. 14K strong magnetic clasp for easy removal and safe wear. Kauai also has very talented lei makers and the sunrise shell or Langford's Pecten has become popular as a centerpiece that is combined with the more traditional styles of lei. this style is inspired by the treasures of the ocean and how well they work together. People get around on horseback, cook on kerosene stoves, and use outhouses. We did receive a letter of authenticity, but it has long since been lost. I've bought from him at SH. Using a combination of beautiful Ni'ihau shells and Grade A Tahitian pearls, this longer lei is definitely a showstopper. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. It . Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources allows you to collect seashells for personal use but not for resale. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Kahelelani Shells 3 strands twisted bracelet at the best online prices at eBay! Shelling at Larsens is a wonderful experience. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. Good luck in your hunt for your gorgeous Niihau shell lei, Plumeria! Each lei can take up to six months to complete. Pikake stitch graduates to long double Mauna Loa strands of high luster. Original Price $600.00 They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. Designs by Teresa Kapaa 96746 . Other places that I would recommend for purchasing Ni'ihau shell lei (or Pu'pu Ni'ihau) is the "tourist trap" by Lawai -- I think it is called Hawaiian Trading Post -- has a large collection of Ni'ihau shell leis -- both for exhibition and for sale -- they always buy from well known Ni'ihau ohana and are a safe bet. But dont let that story deter you. Ni'ihau Helicopters Office Drive to Port Allen Airport You've already signed up for some newsletters, but you haven't confirmed your address. Ni'ihau is estimated to be 4.9-6 million years old. However, the term generally refers to three different shells that are commonly used to make Ni'ihau shell lei: kahelelani , momi, and liki, as well as a fourth one, kmoa, which is frequently used to add contrasting color. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59049737', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui, and had done a little research, and you are right, it is a big decision and one needs to know a bit about what to look for, much like diamond shopping. While some shells and shell colors are more common and easy to find, there are other varieties that are extremely rare and a . I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. So there we were asleep and suddenly we were rudely awakened by the sound of an engine revving and bright, bright lights below at the shoreline. This particular piece is from an estate collection and was well cared for. The families that live and work on Ni'ihau have collected these shells and developed their own lei making techniques over generations for the most part -- many ohana, like the Kanahele's (who I highly recommend) have members that live on Ni'ihau, collect and sew the leis, and then members who live outside Ni'ihau sell them and the money goes back to the ohana. A jaw dropping array of all colors of Momi and Kahelelani are visible but the ultimate prize is incredible construction and consistency of stringing. The seller might still be able to personalize your item. Be sure you're getting authentic Ni`ihau shells. HEIRLOOMS to many, they are the only shell lei in the world that can be insured. Niihau, Hawaii's "Forbidden Island.". The highest elevation on Ni'ihau is 1,280 feet above sea level. To make some money from the outside world, locals rely heavily on the tiny Ni'ihauan shell, scattered along the beaches of this small island. When I first learned about the shells, the makers from Ni'ihau never used sunrise shells in their work, but it was more common on Kauai. There are many books to learn about Niihau, but here are a few that tackle interesting topics. Ni'ihau shell lei are one of Hawaii's most authentic and sought after treasures. Among things prohibited are alcohol, drugs, guns, beards, long hair, tattoos, and piercings. Cowrie - all different varieties. SECTION 2. 3864 Iona Road, (808) 634-0101, blu-umi.com 8. What makes Ni'ihau so mystifying is that life here has remained mostly frozen in time. Glass Beach Jewelry Designs 96714 . We have many types of earrings, also silver hooks available at reduced cost. Kahelelani (born in the late 17th century) was the first ali'i of the island of Niihau, Hawaii; he was the son of High Chief Kanehuanui and High Chiefess Kaluahineloa. As she said best shell beach on the island. So you only have two options for setting foot on the island: take a helicopter tour from Kauai or . remembering account, browser, and regional preferences, remembering privacy and security settings, personalized search, content, and recommendations, helping sellers understand their audience, showing relevant, targeted ads on and off Etsy. We are a Hawaiia n owned, local business that specializes in unique, hand-crafted products that are made in Hawaii. This pretty set is sewn crownflower fashion and is a great piece for casual or formal wear. Utterly fantastic workmanship and quality of shells. I would rec Na Mea on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I feel blessed to live in such a magical, beautiful place. The finish is a large filigree pearl clasp and the balance of colors graduating from pink to burgundy to dark brown provide a great aesthetic while complimenting the marriage of shell and pearl. Ehu Kanahele is one of the best known and reputable and her little store "Ehu Kai" is now located at Port Allen (used to be in Waimea next to the Shrimp Factory) -- I HIGHLY recommend Ehu -- she is a true ambassador of aloha and her ohana is one of the most highly skilled lei makers. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Our options for clasps are boundless and our collection of gem quality cowry are fabulous. And you are so right, Barbara, it's not the price. Some colors of shells I can't wear. Alternatively, you may use, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. Taro K Chip Factory The bestand freshesttaro chips in the state, period. Its also home to a whole host of one-of-a-kind items made with love and extraordinary care. The 1920's explosion in large pearl lariats was based on shell lei worn by Queens of Hawaii while visiting and hosting diplomats. Ni'ihau is probably most famous for the Ni'ihau shell necklaces or lei, which are handcrafted on-island. They have a lot of "stuff" but you can tell the quality pieces and I've always found them to be honest in their discussion of their products. Though the nickname stuck, luckily visiting the island is no longer forbidden. It is in excellent condition and very striking to wear and to look at. When taken to the highest level, they are undoubtedly fine art. (50% off), Sale Price $85.50 Original Price $125.00 Finished in 14K with 14K spacers. I then saw some in Whaler's Village and others in Lahaina that were significantly more expensive and appeared to be far simpler than what I'd fallen in love with at Many Hands, which also made me worry about pricing! Youll see ad results based on factors like relevancy, and the amount sellers pay per click. Ad . Ni'ihau shell leimaking is a traditional native Hawaiian art form that produces a highly-treasured form of jewelry. The Kahelelani shell is the most sought after of the rare Niihau and Kauaian shells. 2. Inquire for wholesale pricing. All have been fully authenticated by makers from Ni`ihau. It is a bottlebrush- blossom. I have one from the Black Pearl (?) The Mkaha Sons are famous for championing traditional Hawaiian music, and their incredible harmonies took them to prestigious places like Carnegie Hall. 14K magnet closure is strong and connects to the bracelet for an extended necklace. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Mine was handed down to me, so I can't help much eithersorry! $85.50, $95.00 This set is a feature of Ula Ula Burgundy shell accents in a strong base of Pikake strung Momi shells. Barbara and 22kauai - thanks for Spouting Horn, it's now on the list! And shells! Now I'm sharing that information here. What was your favorite or best purchase in Hawaii? Please. Good news! Aloha! Any pieces shown here for sale may be slightly different and can be customized to your specifications. A lot depends on the shells, the pattern and how skilled the maker was. Aloha~ Rob Arita, These are momi shells. Kapono Ni`ihau Shell Lei 1. Studio Hours. This piece can be doubled and worn as a 2 strand, or worn long over the head with poe poe sections cascading through the center. This is a beautiful piece by a legendary stringer. They are lovely and much less expensive than the real thing, but just be aware of what they are and what they aren't. From the time we are children, its something we all want to do! In fact, the Hawaiian language is spoken almost . (a) For the purposes of this section, "Niihau shells" means seashells harvested from the island of Niihau, its waters, or its beaches. But it's not exactly simple. SECTION 1. Nice to know in not the ink hone with that bad habit! With a Made in Hawaii selection of Aloha shirts and neckties for men, we offer something for everyone! Beautiful! Strung with Niihau Momi and Kahelelani, the colors are Ula Ula (Burgundy) and Akala Pua (Flower Pink) that compliment either side of the pearls for contrast and originality. Another practical souvenir, this printed towel shows the Hawaiian Islands in a vintage-style map. I will email the photos to you if you don't mind publishing your email address here. These are our Ni'ihau shell post earrings. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity, Bill of sale with detailed information on your lei. Strung Momi Pikake style with breaks of maunaloa strands, this wears long and elegantly. Sunrise ( quite rare) Shells you won't find: Ni'ihau. Item# 16H01WR0250. One Niihau shell lei can run from a hundred dollars up to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the shell type, color and design. (10% off), Sale Price $44.10 Does shopping on Etsy help support small businesses? $34.50, $69.00 We enjoy working with both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors. Not great swimming beaches (apart from Lydgate) you can find a few shells if you look carefully at the right time of day. However, I find that when I fall in love with an item, it's always the most expensive in the case! A beautiful lei adorned with Gem quality Hawaiian Honey Cowry that also can be worn as a centerpiece. big store at the corner of Lawaii Road and 580. pzp--that's encouraging, as I doubt I could really afford the thousands range! Take full advantage of our site features by enabling JavaScript. Most of the tiny shells used are all three species: kahelelani, momi, and laiki. This is the beach right in front of Alamoo road, thats the dirt track road which is just north of the Hanalei Colony Resort. (10% off), Sale Price $93.75 Much like shells are the diamonds to any surfer girl, Niihau shells - found only on the island of Niihau are valued like a one-of-a-kind diamond encrusted necklace. Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers. Their prices tend to be high, although I bought a lei there many years ago. 6-night multi-island adventures, starting from $1,239. It is certifiable with 85% Niihau Shells and features a sunrise shell Centerpiece and sterling silver adjustable length clasp. Find your treasure or have one made for you. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. MF Silver, Kealia . Your email address will not be published. Allows labeling that indicates percentage of Niihau shell content if item contains at least 80% Niihau shells and is made entirely in State. Established in 2013, its mission is to design clothing for Hawaiians, by Hawaiians, from a modern studio in Kaimuki, near the lower slopes of Diamond Head, the island's legendary extinct volcano.. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59045666', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui in January 2013 and saw the lovely ones at Many Hands, but I hadn't researched at all at that time, didn't know if their prices were fair, if the certificate of authenticity were valid or not, etc. Enjoy the combinations of Kahelelani, momi, and sunrise shells displayed on my site. (10% off), Sale Price $1,350.00 Stunning. Absolutely! Send me exclusive offers, unique gift ideas, and personalized tips for shopping and selling on Etsy. Big wave beach Lumahai can yield some amazing shells.. just be careful in the water. 00:00. This perfect Heleconia Lei has a fine detailed blend of Akala Pua Pink and Ula Ula Burgundy shells. I started this site to share my travel stories and inspiration to help you complete bucket list trips. Most, if not all . Buy 2 Get 3rd item FREE - Store only. a great shell beach on Kauai! The colors here are Akala Pua Waipapipi (hot pink), O'mao O'mao (green), and Ele Ele (dark brown). This 5 strand lei features the rarest colors of kahelelani. This book tells you all about the traditional Hawaiian necklaces and how women sew tiny shells into beautiful necklaces. It has just over 100 year-round residents, and they live completely off the grid in a self-sustaining ecosystem. Be aware not all shells are Ni'ihau shells. This topic was brought up on the Europe board and it helped me greatly during my Med cruise last October. Within a couple of weeks of arriving on Kauai 19 years ago, a lovely woman told me about this beach, which very soon became (and still is) my favorite beach on Kauai. To give you a better perspective of how tiny some of these shells are, the different kinds of shells pictured in this section are also shown next to a quarter from the series of quarters minted with designs honoring each of the states. 24", Hawaiian Lei made of precious gem quality shells carefully collected on the Island of Ni`ihau, .. $500.00. Happy shelling! You might want to stop at the Trading Post out on the highway just to see the varieties. [1] Kahelelani came from the royal Kaulamakaula line ("the red bloodline"). The island lacks basic municipal infrastructure. This "forbidden" island is inhabited by approximately 200 full-blooded Hawaiians that keep completely to themselves. These are the only shell in the world insurable as a gemstone but more importantly, a signature of the beauty and labor of each unique Hawaiian Leimaker. Etsy is powered by 100% renewable electricity. All rights reserved. Finished with 14K Gold and GEM quality cypraea granulata. Legally, this term refers only to shells actuallygathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. Now YOU can visit Niihau, the Hawaiian "Forbidden Island" - where "time has stood still". Common colors arekeokeo(white),kala(pink),lenalena(yellow), andmaomao(green). Anyway the photos give an idea what we are discussing. This is a kipona mixed shell set features green O'mao O'mao kahelelani poe poe sections and 14K gold clasps. What I'm seeking is an actual person or two who've purchased from someone on Kauai if it was a positive experience. For generations, the people of Ni'ihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. They are often collected by divers and sold for surprising amounts of cash ($30-$2000 a piece!) (I'm looking at this purchase as I'd do a diamond, a little research goes a long way!). Earrings are 14K french hooks. Niihau shell, Heliconia dangle earrings made with vintage, momi ke'oke'o (pure white) shells and Kauai Kahelelani. With 14K strong magnet clasp it attaches to bracelet to wear long, or can be worn as 3 pieces. of Niihaus history and surroundings. beautiful shells and lovely work indeed. Thanks in advance for your replies. From beach cover-ups and sundresses to Kauai logo tees and the all-popular Kauai Rooster cap. A private island with a population of mostly pure Native Hawaiian descent, Ni'ihau has no rivers running into the ocean. Although, Poleho can be picked on Ni'ihau, our Poleho shells are. (b) Except as provided herein, no person shall offer, display, expose for sale, or solicit for sale any product or jewelry item fabricated, processed, or manufactured with seashells, that is described, labeled, or identified using the term "Niihau" or "Niihau", either alone or in conjunction with other words, or in a trade or brand name, unless: (1) One hundred per cent of all shells in the product or jewelry item are Niihau shells; and. Hand crafted Kapono style Hawaiian Lei made of precious gem quality shells carefully collected on the Island of Ni`ihau Hawaii, known as the Forbidden Island. Ahhh Polihale. Each piece of Ni'ihau jewelry we carry is in compliance with all laws protecting Ni'ihau shells in Hawaii. Each earring is unique as there will only be one available at a time. New statutory material is underscored. Still want to check it out! $254.99, $299.99 I've saved some excellent information from this forum, thanks to those of you with experience! With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. A few other terms includekahakaha(striped),nikiniki(spotted),puupuu(bumpy), and evenwaha ulaula(red mouth). Located far west on the chain of Hawaiian islands, Niihau is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island and has a unique history to match its nickname as Hawaiis Forbidden Island. Very few people visit each year (though visiting is certainly possible), despite the allure of exploring a place that seems almost untouched by the passing of time especially as its within the United States! This design was inspired by Victoria Feinberg. Niihau shell leis are one of the most prized souvenirs you can bring home from Hawaii; the queens and princesses of Hawaii are often depicted wearing leis made of the three different types of tiny, precious pupu o Niihau shells (source). This classic look first made it's splash when Queen Emmalani wore her Laiki shell lei abroad to meet diplomats in Europe. The gem-like shells can be as tiny as the head of a pin and can be found on the beaches of Hawaii's private island. It's not of the highest quality because of the variation in coloring but the price reflected that and more people have oo'ed and ah'ed over that piece than you can imagine. Colors and lengths can vary depending on what is in stock. Traditionally worn at weddings but stunning for any occasion is this 10 strand Laiki or Rice shell lei measuring in at 36". The shells carefully collected on the Island of Ni`ihau Hawaii, known as the Forbidden Island. With powerful tools and services, along with expert support and education, we help creative entrepreneurs start, manage, and scale their businesses. Captcha failed to load. We provide certificates of authenticity with every Ni'ihau creation and in some cases an appraisal free of charge. Free shipping for many products! Theres not much variety of lei styles; however, leis are one-of-a-kind in design and come in different price ranges according to the type of shell, its uniqueness, and color. Some antique pieces we carry have been refinished for quality purposes. Including Sunrise shells & Puka shells.