Matching earrings are 14K gold wire. Made famous by artisans on the island of Ni'ihau, they are now known throughout the world as one of the finest types of jewelry. In 2020 alone, purchases on Etsy generated nearly $4 billion in income for small businesses. Purchased by a wealthy Scottish widow in 1864, the family-owned island of Niihau is committed to preserving its natural and cultural history perhaps at a dangerous cost. Bracelet is burgundy or Ula Ula Kahelelani sewn with momi shells in the heliconia fashion. We did receive a letter of authenticity, but it has long since been lost. Item# 16H01WR0250. Youll see ad results based on factors like relevancy, and the amount sellers pay per click. With all the beauty of nature~, Hi there, thanks for the comment. 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. They are unisex and come in different colors and sizes. You'll also usually pay more for a traditional cowry clasp than for a gold one. The smallest of the populated Hawaiian Islands, Niihau has an area of 70 square miles (180 square km). Good luck in your hunt for your gorgeous Niihau shell lei, Plumeria! Click Buy it now or Add to cart and proceed to checkout. For each, is a person who will love and treasure it. The color and size matching, plus the graduated thickness of the lei is really superb. On Ni'ihau, after the designs were carved into the skin, the gourds were said to have been buried in black mud. You've already signed up for some newsletters, but you haven't confirmed your address. Don't expect to find the valuable tiny Niihau shells that comprised the jewelry of Hawaiian royalty - they only wash ashore on Niihau, the Forbidden Island. :D. Ni'ihau shell jewelry is one of the most Hawaiian art forms represented in Maui Hands. This lei is a very high luster 3-strand long 34" incredible quality piece made with Kahelelani Akala Pua (flower pink), Makue (burgundy), Ula Ula (red, burgundy), O'mao O'mao (green), LenaLena Kamoa, Ele Ele (dark brown, black) and Momi Ke'Oke'O (white, off white), Onikiniki (black striped), LenaLena (yellow), KahaKaha (deep gold stripe) and UliUli (deep grey). This piece is 24" and is one of the most treasured favorites in our collection. This stunning set can come in any color or style in varied lengths. This is a sample of the lei varieties that we create and curate as heirlooms. This "forbidden" island is inhabited by approximately 200 full-blooded Hawaiians that keep completely to themselves. Article Sources Kauai Crystal Sanctuary Anahola 96703 . Although most of the names given in this website are fairly standard among shell lei makers, the shells pictured here and the descriptive names were all supplied by Kanani, an experienced shell lei artisan. Just the lei is $800 but earrings and bracelet be sold in addition as a full set for $1200. 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. Read. Every Ni'ihau shell creation we offer is made with care and selected for quality and originality. The Shell above is not a sunrise shell, though it looks similar. Niihau shell strands are suspended from stamped . Its only accessible by driving 20 mins down a dirt track (past the Hyatt and CJM stables.. go to the end, turn right and keep going). Ni'ihau shell necklace Rare colors AlohaMeraki (4) $549.00 FREE shipping 20 1/2 inches Niihau momi shell necklace and bracelet with kahelelani shells from Hawaii DuangchindaOfHawaii (159) $850.00 Gorgeous Kahelelani Shell necklace Made in Hawaii USA Gold fill thin dainty delicate chain Ni'ihau Niihau like Island Ocean Beach Jewelry We've sent you an email to confirm your subscription. Legally, this term refers only to shells actuallygathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. The kahelelani poe poe blend has all the colors represented in a symmetrical match of width and length. This bracelet features gorgeous shells with a modern design and is finished with a 14K Gold safety clasp. This is a special order piece and requires 2-3 weeks lead time. We happily supply curated items to galleries with educational materials. Earrings are 14K french hooks. SECTION 1. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Ni'ihau is located 17.5 miles southwest of Kauai. Captcha failed to load. And my "little" one came from the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? what puzzles me is that they can only be found on ni'ihau. Kahelelani are the most rare variety of Ni'ihau shells. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. Most of us refrain from buying books as souvenirs unless the person is a bookworm. swmarket: thanks for the Na Mea rec; it was on the Oahu recommended list, too and I really love that shop! It is roughly 18.6 miles long and 6.2 miles wide. What more could you ask! 00:00. Found something you love but want to make it even more uniquely you? To enable personalized advertising (like interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. The shells used to create NIIHAU SHELL LEI are akin to precious gemstones. After logging in you can close it and return to this page. New statutory material is underscored. Finally, The Niihau Incident: The True Story by Allan Beekman gives detailed insight into how the plane crash of a Japanese fighter pilot on Niihau became one of the darkest episodes of the islands history. Inquire for photos of different sets. Our options for clasps are boundless and our collection of gem quality cowry are fabulous. All rights reserved. I'm also asking on the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This gorgeous 3 strand kahelelani necklace in the poepoe style required over 1200 shells to complete.finished with a solid 18k clasp! A few other terms includekahakaha(striped),nikiniki(spotted),puupuu(bumpy), and evenwaha ulaula(red mouth). Youll see some people use it as decoration due to its vibrant colors and large size. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. A lot depends on the shells, the pattern and how skilled the maker was. They arent stones, of course, but TINY SHELLS that are rare and precious. this style is inspired by the treasures of the ocean and how well they work together. The bright red flower growing in the tropical forests on Hawaii island is the Lehua. The leimaker is well into her 50's and has been working with shells since the age of 7. Our price is variable and pieces are made with high test line, and in most cases 14K gold clasp. This remote beach is a great shell beach on Kauai. i tried this and me and my eyes gave up. 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. The art of lei-making is unique to Niihaus culture and has been alive since before the arrival of European settlers. The lei can be connected with the bracelet to make a longer necklace while the earrings make a perfect compliment for any style. For us back then it was a rather extravagant purchase. (25% off), Sale Price $67.50 This set is a matching combination of white Ke'Oke'O Momi shells and Pink Akala Pua Kahelelani. Here are two photos of Niihau shell necklaces in a collection at Hawaiian Trading Post at Kalaheo. $93.75, $125.00 Jun 14, 2014 - All about ni'ihau shells. You will check in at the Ni'ihau Helicopters sales office on Kaumualii Highway in Kaumakani, on the south shore of Kaua'i. It's next to the post office in the same shopping plaza as Aloha Sweet Delights, whose pink and yellow sign you can't miss from the road. what a prize when we find one! Is it legal to collect shells in Hawaii? The highest elevation on Ni'ihau is 1,280 feet above sea level. This is a kipona mixed shell set features green O'mao O'mao kahelelani poe poe sections and 14K gold clasps. If you want to buy jewelry or leis made with pupu o Niihau, you can ask any shop to provide documentation that the work is authentic. These are kahelelani. Barbara and 22kauai - thanks for Spouting Horn, it's now on the list! Allows labeling that indicates percentage of Niihau shell content if item contains at least 80% Niihau shells and is made entirely in State. Less than a mile up the Waimea Canyon Drive between mile markers 13 and 14 is the large Pu'u Hinahina Lookout. There are four species of Ni'ihau shells, or Pupu 'O Ni'ihau. Shells are generally identified by first indicating the kind of shell, such askahelelani,momi,liki, etc., and then adding any qualifying terms, usually relating to color. Among things prohibited are alcohol, drugs, guns, beards, long hair, tattoos, and piercings. Niihau Shell Leis are alo available at Totally Hawaiian in the Whalers Village Shopping Center , Kaanapali , Maui Mahalo nui loa Malama pono i malama kekahi i kekahi Barbara, Thanks for the tip, Barbara! 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. The Trading Post did used to have a much bigger selection, and there used to be more vendors at Spouting Horn. Mahalepu is my favorite South Shore beach; it has a wonderful hike on the north side above the ocean and some beautiful views and great shade in amongst the pine trees and shrubs. Its certainly pretty when the pieces are shimmering in the sun. 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.. They get food from the ranch as well. Ni'ihau Shells More Listed on Feb 26, 2023 One favorite Report this item to Etsy . It was an hour before daybreak but some local family were looking for Sunrise shells. There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. Over the last several years I have not been as impressed with the quality of leis being sold at the Trading Post, they might have a couple of high end ones but I remember them having a much bigger collection than they do now. It is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) southwest of Kauai across the Kaulakahi Channel. We currently specialize in Ni'ihau shell lei, Seed lei, and Lauhala Weaving. The viewing area perched above the jagged crumbling . . Glass Beach Jewelry Designs 96714 . Gorgeous 7 mile beach, stunning pointed cliffs and miles of ocean. Enjoy your search for the perfect one! They have been used for centuries by the native people of these islands. A Ni'ihau shell lei currently located in the British Museum and most likely collected by Cook during one of his several visits to the island of Ni'ihau is made mostly of kahelelani shells. Niihau, Hawaii's "Forbidden Island.". (25% off), Sale Price $34.50 The island lacks basic municipal infrastructure. Pamela Dow, a Kekaha retailer of the jewelry, hopes to elevate the art form to . Instead, there are plenty of venues in Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island that offer authentic Niihau shell leis and jewelry. You can dress long in the flapper fashion, short as a choker, or as a waistband beach accessory. But if you are patient! All shells sold as Ni'ihau shells must contain at least 80% Ni'ihau shells and must be made in the State of Hawai'i. Earwires are 14K French Hooks. Palazzo Pant & Kimono Set - Tattoo in Royal & Black Lotus & Lime $121.95. SECTION 3. Etsy uses cookies and similar technologies to give you a better experience, enabling things like: Detailed information can be found in Etsys Cookies & Similar Technologies Policy and our Privacy Policy. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59044606', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Kauai Products store at Kukui Shopping Center. The Kahelelani is also the most colorful shell used in Niihau and Kauaian shell leis. All words and images 2013-2023 The Kolibro Group LLC. Well, it's not 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. Copyright text 2019 by Kauai Vacation Rental Advisor. Left in photo is poe poe kipona, center is crownflower and right is heliconia stitch. Native Hawaiian Economic Development; Niihau Shells; Protection, Prohibits sale of seashell items w/description or label using term "Niihau" or "Niihau" unless item contains 100% Niihau shells and is made entirely in Hawaii. I feel blessed to live in such a magical, beautiful place. Price tag: $20,000. The seller might still be able to personalize your item. A Sunrise Shell on Kauai looks like a Sunrise.a half moon of yellows and oranges and reds with the shape above. One of the most expensive items HNN came across was a three-strand Ni'ihau shell lei. Kauai, with its close proximity to Niihau, has an abundant choice of these UNUSUAL AND HANDCRAFTED shell lei. What makes Ni'ihau so mystifying is that life here has remained mostly frozen in time. Finish is a granulated cowry in traditional Ni'ihau fashion. I recall a few years ago camping with some friends down the end and one of the group spending hours sifting through the sand looking for (and finding the much sought after Niihau shells those tiny pink and red mini shells that are made into the famous Niihau Leis (necklaces). Any pieces shown here for sale may be slightly different and can be customized to your specifications. Original Price $1,650.00 Last I checked, multi-strand chokers were going for at least $100/strand, but that may be outdated. We have had persons informally tell us it is worth at least 3-4x what we originally paid for it, most recently by Dylan Thomas the owner of Havaiki. Read more in my Privacy Policy. In addition to being rare, Kahelelani . $44.10, $49.00 Though the nickname stuck, luckily visiting the island is no longer forbidden. MF Silver, Kealia . From this website, I have a list of approved sellers: http://www.niihauheritage.org/niihau_shells.htm. (10% off), Sale Price $93.75 Things go up from there. Niihau Shell Leis is another exciting book you may bring home with you. Once we receive an email from you, we will respond in a detailed and timely manner. I had drooled over Niihau shell lei for my previous two trips to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Cones Leopard cone, Hebrew cone, Marble cone, others. Sold separately, these are made to order by a skilled leimaker. The 72-square-mile Niihau is everything the major Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and its neighbor Kauai are not. As our inventory is changing frequently, please contact us for current inventory not yet posted and custom orders. This piece is finished with a traditional gem grade single cowry clasp. When the sun sets over Kauai's Kekaha Beach on an especially clear night, a tall, silhouetted tract of land emerges west of the Hawaiian islands, toward the horizon. Free housing is provided by the Robinsons. Kauai Tourism Kauai Hotels Kauai Bed and Breakfast Kauai Vacation Rentals Kauai Packages Flights to Kauai Kauai Restaurants Kauai Attractions Kauai Travel Forum Kauai Photos Up to 20 inches $10,000. Ni'ihau Shell Heirlooms. Precious Diamond 808 Detailing Anahola 96703 . This shell . These tiny, gorgeous shells wash up on the island of Ni'ihau, which is inaccessible to the public. Niihau ( Hawaiian: [niihw] ), anglicized as Niihau ( / ni ( i) ha / NEE- (ee-)how ), is the westernmost main and seventh largest inhabited island in Hawaii. Polihale is one of the best shell beaches on Kauai and an amazing experience! Under Add your personalization, the text box will tell you what the seller needs to know. Item# 18D01LK0085. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. A couple of years ago I was there camping (more on camping on Kauai here) with the girls and we were sleeping up on the sand dunes (to make sure we wouldnt get run over by big trucks on the beach!)