While many of the items on Etsy are handmade, youll also find craft supplies, digital items, and more. what a prize when we find one! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59043927', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Oahu forum, as we'll be a week at each this August. I would like toknow where to look. The Bracelet is an optional extension to the lei or can be worn around the wrist for a flat and delicate compliment to the necklace. I did buy the gorgeous book Totally Hawaiian has on Niihau shell lei, which I highly recommend. Clasp is fixed currently with a granulated cowry but can be doubled and worn as a shorter 20 strand look. Hypoallergenic 14K gold ear wire. Original Price $299.99 Item #195, Ni'ihau Designer Tahitian Pearl Bracelet sewn with high quality Akala Pua Kahelelani and A Grade Tahitian Pearls. (2) The product or jewelry item is fabricated, processed, or manufactured entirely within this State. 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!. Bellewoods Art Kilauea 96754 . Some colors of shells I can't wear. 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. Consistently earned 5-star reviews, shipped orders on time, and replied quickly to messages, Looks like you already have an account! Article Sources 2569. Anyway, your opinions matter to me! There are also some souvenirs that you can order online which will allow you to experience Niihau at home whether youre still planning a trip or thinking back fondly on yours. If you want to know about Kauais Top Beaches in general, check out my post on that here. They can also be found on Kaua`i and Moloka`i, but those lack the luster of the authentic ones. Those prices. It's the Hawaiian way. Length: 24" Materials: Kahelelani 'ele'ele (tiny dark red burgundy shells) kahelelani 'oma'oma 'o (tan tiny shells) Kahelelani 'akala pua (tiny pink shells) Puka shell (white end cap) momi ke'oke'o kua'ula (white shells) what puzzles me is that they can only be found on ni'ihau. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. Do you mind if I ask how much the Nihau leis cost? Thank you for all of your replys.Sounds like the place to look is The Trading Post, and expect at least a couple grand? Jun 14, 2014 - All about ni'ihau shells. From beach cover-ups and sundresses to Kauai logo tees and the all-popular Kauai Rooster cap. I love it and consider it one of my most prized jewelry items. The physic Their prices tend to be high, although I bought a lei there many years ago. . "Ikigai" Wrap Pants - Tattoo in Black/Bronze Lotus & Lime $49.95. 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). The seventy-two-square-mile island located off the southwestern tip of Kaua'i is part of Kaua'i County but has been privately owned since 1864, first by the Sinclair and now by the Robinson family. Learn more. Shades of colors are often identified ashiehie(light) orikaika(dark). At 17.5 miles from Kauai, Niihau is the 7th largest of the inhabited Hawaiian islands. Very nice and striking colors in this lei. Captcha failed to load. One of only three places in the world where technology has not yet moved in, Niihau Island (if you pronounce it "Nee-ee-how" you'll be pretty close) is a 72 square mile privately owned island just southwest of the island of Kauai. She advised looking and investigating very carefully.it seems that there are what appear to be " knock offs " out there. If you are a history buff or have someone back home who is, Beekmans book is one of the best Niihau gifts. Inquire to choose your very own sunrise shell for this design. Found something you love but want to make it even more uniquely you? 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. The 72-square-mile Niihau is everything the major Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and its neighbor Kauai are not. 6-night multi-island adventures, starting from $1,239. Niihau shell strands are suspended from stamped . Cowrie - all different varieties. Niihau Island lies 17 miles southwest of Kauai. Original Price $125.00 Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources allows you to collect seashells for personal use but not for resale. Inquire to see our sunrise or cowry collection and have one of these beauties made just for you. Shhhh. 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. info@niihauheritage.org, All Rights Reserved Copyright 2020 It's actually far more interesting a piece than the higher quality ones simply because of it's varied coloration. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, Emperors Emporium has the largest selection of island-inspired jewelry, clothing and Red Dirt shirts, gifts. Pink, Burgundy, Kamoa yellow in heliconia or crownflower stitch for the same cost. It's our 25th wedding anniversary gift and I could not be more excited! Colors and lengths can vary depending on what is in stock. 1. Ni'ihau Designer Tahitian Pearl Bracelet sewn with high quality Akala Pua Kahelelani and A Grade Tahitian Pearls. They are lovely and much less expensive than the real thing, but just be aware of what they are and what they aren't. Located 17 miles off the west coast of Kauai lies the island of Ni'ihau, better known as The Forbidden Isle. 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. With powerful tools and services, along with expert support and education, we help creative entrepreneurs start, manage, and scale their businesses. I know it's a lot, but have no idea what range we are talking aboutI am interested in getting one when I am there in August, but have a feeling I may be out of my league You should be able to get a pikake choker-length for about $125. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. I bought mine from a Spouting Horn vendor about ten years ago. There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. The highest elevation on Ni'ihau is 1,280 feet above sea level. Good luck in your hunt for your gorgeous Niihau shell lei, Plumeria! To live in such a beautiful place filled. The login page will open in a new tab. Big Blue Princeville 96722 . See more ideas about niihau shells, niihau, shells. Over 80% by count Niihau shells, this piece is a high fashion statement. Our main goal is to pair the right piece with it's soul mate. (a) For the purposes of this section, "Niihau shells" means seashells harvested from the island of Niihau, its waters, or its beaches. There are four species of Ni'ihau shells, or Pupu 'O Ni'ihau. $450.00, $600.00 Have any questions about where to buy Niihau shell leis or other souvenirs from Hawaiis Forbidden Island? There is a palpable individuality to all shell creations from Ni'ihau. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. The lei can be connected with the bracelet to make a longer necklace while the earrings make a perfect compliment for any style. Kauai Rainbow Connection 96714 . About Us Kahelelani is the smallest, most valuable and hardest to prepare. (Also, I did update your comment for you! Sizes can be adjusted and pieces can be sold separately. One of a kind handmade jewelry including Ni'ihau shell and Sunrise Shell necklaces, earrings and bracelets all locally made at great prices. Last I checked, multi-strand chokers were going for at least $100/strand, but that may be outdated. The native iron compounds in the earth possibly reacted with tannins in the gourd, creating black and dark reddish-brown patterns. This bracelet features gorgeous shells with a modern design and is finished with a 14K Gold safety clasp. Kapono Ni`ihau Shell Lei 1. Here are two photos of Niihau shell necklaces in a collection at Hawaiian Trading Post at Kalaheo. The small shells used in Ni'ihau lei are named after him. 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. The stretch of beaches from Wailua to Kapaa encompasses quite a few beaches including the big family beach Lydgate and the beach behind the Lanikai Resort and the one in front of the newest (even though its a couple of years old now!) 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. Traditionally worn at weddings but stunning for any occasion is this 10 strand Laiki or Rice shell lei measuring in at 36". (25% off), Sale Price $34.50 The leimaker is well into her 50's and has been working with shells since the age of 7. Kahelelani shells/Niihau - . Beautiful works of art. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. [3] Kahelelani are the most rare variety of Ni'ihau shells. I also have purchased one from a shop at Kilhana (which I'm not sure is still there). Most, if not all . What was your favorite or best purchase in Hawaii? These pieces were designed to have a gentle contrast between Kahelelani and Momi and were made together but sold separately. are highly sought after and valued as such. 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. 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. Niihau, Hawaiian Ni'ihau, volcanic island, Kauai county, Hawaii, U.S. Niihau lies 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Kauai island. Answer 11 of 14: Are there any beaches where visitors can find the beautiful Sunrise shells? I'm also asking on the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Thats a business and I understand people need to feed their families but it takes the magic out of it. Our global marketplace is a vibrant community of real people connecting over special goods. (10% off), Sale Price $44.10 Here's the website list of Kauai sellers: Waimea Canyon General Store/Forever Kauai (Kekaha). Glass beach is in Hanapepe and here you may find (depending on the tide) tiny pieces of glass that wash back and forth with the tide. What more could you ask! 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. Try using a different browser or disabling ad blockers. Each piece of Ni'ihau jewelry we carry is in compliance with all laws protecting Ni'ihau shells in Hawaii. 00:00. The 70-square-mile island (about half the size of Lna'i and twice as large as Kaho'olawe) is the smallest inhabited island in Hawai'i with 84 residents (mostly Native Hawaiian) and 35 houses (DBEDT & Census.) 3940 Hanapp Road, (808) 335-5586 Pikake stitch graduates to long double Mauna Loa strands of high luster. A jaw dropping array of all colors of Momi and Kahelelani are visible but the ultimate prize is incredible construction and consistency of stringing. 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). I have one from the Black Pearl (?) This delicate looking 18" lei is comprised of laiki shells and akala colored kahelelani shells. Youll see ad results based on factors like relevancy, and the amount sellers pay per click. 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! The bright red flower growing in the tropical forests on Hawaii island is the Lehua. Up to 20 inches $10,000. $1,350.00, $1,800.00 Kauai & Niihau Airplane Tours. For experienced, certified scuba divers, Seasport Divers and Fathom Five Divers also visit Lehua. The only job available on Niihau is at the Robinson family ranch, where the majority of the population works raising cattle. Website by: Emagine, gathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. Stunning. Allows labeling that indicates percentage of Niihau shell content if item contains at least 80% Niihau shells and is made entirely in State. This stunning set can come in any color or style in varied lengths. Our options for clasps are boundless and our collection of gem quality cowry are fabulous. 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). Wait time on a lei of this style is between 3 and 6 weeks generally. -Ni'ihau Shells- Glowing like pearls, the garlands are made of the most precious and almost priceless shell in the world: Pupu O Ni'ihau. The 1920's explosion in large pearl lariats was based on shell lei worn by Queens of Hawaii while visiting and hosting diplomats. These tiny, gorgeous shells wash up on the island of Ni'ihau, which is inaccessible to the public. Please check your email for a link to verify your email address. Etsy is powered by 100% renewable electricity. :D. MauiPuaLani (26) $95.00 FREE shipping In addition to being rare, Kahelelani . When combined with kahelelani, momi, and kamoa, the variations are endless. Be very cautious when purchasing these leis -- the person who sells them to you should be able to answer these questions: identify the family that made them, what types of shells are used in the lei, what the stringing technique is called, etc. This piece is 24" and is one of the most treasured favorites in our collection. Including Sunrise shells & Puka shells. This remote beach is a great shell beach on Kauai. The stretch of beaches from Wailua to Kapa'a encompasses quite a few beaches including the big family beach - Lydgate - and the beach behind the Lanikai Resort and the one in front of the newest (even though it's a couple of years old now!) Made only on Ni'ihau, a private island off Kaua'i's west side, the lei are known as one of Polynesia's finest ART FORMS . Most of the tiny shells used are all three species: kahelelani, momi, and laiki. This perfect Heleconia Lei has a fine detailed blend of Akala Pua Pink and Ula Ula Burgundy shells. Tours begin from Koloa, Kauai, and take participants across the often-rough Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua. 0 . Length: 19" Materials: kahelelani 'akala pua (pink tiny shells) kahelel . Less than a mile up the Waimea Canyon Drive between mile markers 13 and 14 is the large Pu'u Hinahina Lookout. I paid $20 for it and the gal down the walk "wired" it for me for $15! The words of the motto are generally attributed to King Kamehameha III, Kauikeaouli, who reportedly spoke them on July 31, 1843, when sovereignty was restored to the Hawaiian kingdom after a brief British occupation. They are unisex and come in different colors and sizes. You can dress long in the flapper fashion, short as a choker, or as a waistband beach accessory. THE FORBIDDEN ISLAND. Just the lei is $800 but earrings and bracelet be sold in addition as a full set for $1200. Ni'ihau Shell Heirlooms. You can also find online shops to purchase them. I had "rat-holed" birthday and Christmas money for a year or so, and had nice sum to spend, but NOTHING like $5000. 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. Collected from the beaches of the forbidden island and painstakingly cleaned and sewn together is a legacy unique to it's culture. Just a word of caution when identifying Niihau shells. To enable personalized advertising (like interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. (10% off), Sale Price $254.99 Original Price $95.00 Great! 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 currently specialize in Ni'ihau shell lei, Seed lei, and Lauhala Weaving. Its area is 69.5 square miles (180 km 2 ). In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the K Hawaii Paeina (Hawaiian Kingdom) people. It is the most beautiful shell I have seen and it has the most variation in color and patterning in the entire ocean~. The art of lei-making from Ni'ihau shells is a very closely protected one -- the shells cannot be called "Ni'ihau" shells any longer unless they are actually collected on that island (this law was passed just last year I believe) -- since the kahelelani shells, momi shells and others are also found on other islands, this has been a big problem in the past -- the shells from Ni'ihau have a special luster which gives them that most rare distinction. It is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) southwest of Kauai across the Kaulakahi Channel. Instead, there are plenty of venues in Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island that offer authentic Ni'ihau shell leis and jewelry. several thousand dollars for a multi-strand ni'ihau shell lei! Be aware not all shells are Ni'ihau shells. Copyright text 2019 by Kauai Vacation Rental Advisor. It hardly ever rains at Polihale so you can do that; nothing like looking at the canopy of the stars. And you are so right, Barbara, it's not the price. You will see lots of "Ni'ihau" shell leis or bracelets from smaller crafters on the island, but usually they are the ones from down at (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Ni'ihau shell lei are one of Hawaii's most authentic and sought after treasures. This piece can be worn several ways. With all the beauty of nature~, Hi there, thanks for the comment. Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers. This 5 strand lei features the rarest colors of kahelelani. Required fields are marked *. Enjoy your search for the perfect one! Choose the options youd like for the order. The Mkaha Sons are famous for championing traditional Hawaiian music, and their incredible harmonies took them to prestigious places like Carnegie Hall. this style is inspired by the treasures of the ocean and how well they work together. I had looked at Totally Hawaiian at Whalers Village, among other places, and they did have a pretty big selection, and some really gorgeous shell lei, but yikes! Not even enough for one necklace. Things go up from there. In addition is a description and history of the craft with leimakers name and an artist statement. These retail for between $350-$600 in shops. Your email address will not be published. Instead, there are plenty of venues in Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island that offer authentic Niihau shell leis and jewelry. Expect to see knockoff s with slightly different labels. Set where you live, what language you speak, and the currency you use. Every Ni'ihau shell creation we offer is made with care and selected for quality and originality. (15% off). I talked with her for a bit - very interesting. Finished in 14K with 14K spacers. They are valued like a one-of-a-kind diamond necklace. In the gaps between the shells, Ive been gifted with more than a few big cowrie shells among others. Youll see some people use it as decoration due to its vibrant colors and large size. King Kamehameha IV sold it for $10,000 in 1863 to Elizabeth Sinclair of Scotland. Finish is a granulated cowry in traditional Ni'ihau fashion. Good news! 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. Each lei can take up to six months to complete. Great for little kids to look for tiny fish and cucumber fish and shells. For a full list of the different varieties of shells considered Ni'ihau shell, visit, Poleho, also named "night cowry", are another type of shell commonly used with Ni'ihau shells. Made of precious pupu o Niihau shells, no lei is the same, showing the versatile craft of each Hawaiaan Leimaker. They have been used for centuries by the native people of these islands. While some shells and shell colors are more common and easy to find, there are other varieties that are extremely rare and a . It just means you don't get the fancy, multi-strand long lei. Understandably, the rare shells are highly valued works of art both on display and for . Alternatively, you may use, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. My latest one was purchased from a Spouting Horn vendor and it came with a certificate of authenticity. Inquire to have photos sent to you of most current inventory since we often have incredible lei that are not yet posted online. Buy 2 Get 3rd item FREE - Store only. Those partners may have their own information theyve collected about you. I forgot to add in my postings about the Nihau shells. Aloha! They come in an amazing array of colors and can be woven into the most beautiful adornments. The rare and highly valued shells ( kahelelani, laiki, momi, and kamoa ), are found on the beaches of Ni'ihau and crafted by the island's residents into various styles of lei, earrings . 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). I feel blessed to live in such a magical, beautiful place. What a life! SECTION 2. While you can find these rare shells on the shores of the Forbidden Island only, you won't be able to travel and find these souvenirs in Ni'ihau. Free housing is provided by the Robinsons. Can be sold individually or with earrings.