Kauai has many beaches and so heres my pick of the best shell beaches on Kauai! (10% off), Sale Price $44.10 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. Ni'ihau is the westernmost inhabited island in Hawaii. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. Matching earrings are 14K gold wire. They are often collected by divers and sold for surprising amounts of cash ($30-$2000 a piece!) $1,350.00, $1,800.00 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. Have any questions about where to buy Niihau shell leis or other souvenirs from Hawaiis Forbidden Island? Cowrie - all different varieties. This topic was brought up on the Europe board and it helped me greatly during my Med cruise last October. Sold individually, these earrings come in a number of shapes, styles, colors and sizes. Ni'ihau probably formed first, since it is farthest west in the chain and volcanoes to the east are younger, but data indicating the exact onset times of the two volcanoes do not exist. 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!) And shells. We chose to finish these with 14K stunning Cypraea Helvolla Cowry hook and eye. Item #196, Incredible 5 strand Mauna Loa Lei featuring Kahelelani Akala Pua, ke oke o, ula ula, makue, akala pua waipapipi, omao omao, akala ahiehie, with accents of kamoa lenalena. Article Sources Required fields are marked *. Located 17 miles off the west coast of Kauai lies the island of Ni'ihau, better known as The Forbidden Isle. With a Made in Hawaii selection of Aloha shirts and neckties for men, we offer something for everyone! (sunrise shells are sold for quite a bit) . I so wanted a necklace but couldn't afford it :( I did end up getting some earrings. 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. Any pieces shown here for sale may be slightly different and can be customized to your specifications. Niihau Shell Leis is another exciting book you may bring home with you. $85.50, $95.00 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. Kauai Tourism Kauai Hotels Kauai Guest House Kauai Holiday Homes Kauai Holiday Packages Kauai Flights Kauai Restaurants Kauai Attractions Kauai Travel Forum Kauai Photos I dont have a photo of one that I took hence the once above, which is also lovely. magical! Knew they were expensive tho, so not that surprised. Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha by the Mkaha Sons of Niihau is full of traditional Hawaiian tunes. Colors and lengths can vary depending on what is in stock. 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. Captcha failed to load. Niihau shell strands are suspended from stamped . Bellewoods Art Kilauea 96754 . . In 2020 alone, purchases on Etsy generated nearly $4 billion in income for small businesses. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. pzp--that's encouraging, as I doubt I could really afford the thousands range! what puzzles me is that they can only be found on ni'ihau. It has just over 100 year-round residents, and they live completely off the grid in a self-sustaining ecosystem. Item# 16H01WR0250. Original Price $49.00 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.. Clasp is fixed currently with a granulated cowry but can be doubled and worn as a shorter 20 strand look. 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. Glass Beach Jewelry Designs 96714 . Niihau ( Hawaiian: [niihw] ), anglicized as Niihau ( / ni ( i) ha / NEE- (ee-)how ), is the westernmost main and seventh largest inhabited island in Hawaii. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. If the person is not knowledgeable about these things, be very concerned -- especially if they are asking what seems to be a very good price in comparison to other leis. Kauai. Ni'ihau shell jewelry is one of the most Hawaiian art forms represented in Maui Hands. What more could you ask! There may be variations, however, in the names that other lei makers commonly use. 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. Courtesy of HTA. 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. Heres where you can purchase authentic Niihau shell leis: Each of these locations offers Niihau shell leis that should be documented and authentic. Its easy to find pictures of Queen Kapiolani wearing beautiful multi-strand lei as jewelry. As our inventory is changing frequently, please contact us for current inventory not yet posted and custom orders. From the time we are children, its something we all want to do! I have one from the Black Pearl (?) Now I'm sharing that information here. They are lovely and much less expensive than the real thing, but just be aware of what they are and what they aren't. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. this style is inspired by the treasures of the ocean and how well they work together. 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. This piece can be worn several ways. Earwires are 14K French Hooks. Beautiful! Ni'ihau shells are a variety of endemic species of sea creatures whose shells are picked off the shores of the island of Ni'ihau. Diamonds and platinum may be a sign of luxury in the U.S. Mainland, but in Hawaii it's Ni'ihau shell jewelry. This pretty Heleconia Lei has a fine detailed blend of Akala Pua Pink and Ula Ula Burgundy shells with O'mao O'mao Green and Ele Ele Brown. These shells are very unique, and they are found only on the island of Ni'ihau. Alternatively, you may use, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. I had drooled over Niihau shell lei for my previous two trips to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Shells of Niihau. It hardly ever rains at Polihale so you can do that; nothing like looking at the canopy of the stars. Happy shelling! 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! I ended up with a really lovely 2 strand white momi, with matching earrings. Not sure why but there seem to be more shells here than anywhere else. Can you check the link for me? This stunning set can come in any color or style in varied lengths. This piece is finished with a traditional gem grade single cowry clasp. and just poking holes in these tiny shells and stringing them up is soooo labor-intensive! His items are good quality and the prices reasonable, though I have to say I'd not dare buy on Ebay where I can't see the piece and try it on. Finish is a Freshwater 14K Gold Pearl safety clasp. Original Price $125.00 With all the beauty of nature~, Hi there, thanks for the comment. I forgot to add in my postings about the Nihau shells. Now YOU can visit Niihau, the Hawaiian "Forbidden Island" - where "time has stood still". New statutory material is underscored. This is the beach right in front of Alamoo road, thats the dirt track road which is just north of the Hanalei Colony Resort. 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. (10% off), Sale Price $1,350.00 This 5 strand lei features the rarest colors of kahelelani. While you can find these rare shells on the shores of the Forbidden Island only, you wont be able to travel and find these souvenirs in Niihau. Cones Leopard cone, Hebrew cone, Marble cone, others. The value of a lei is also impacted by the availability of certain shells. They are unisex and come in different colors and sizes. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59045746', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui. 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. SECTION 2. And you are so right, Barbara, it's not the price. They come in an amazing array of colors and can be woven into the most beautiful adornments. Hawaii is known for many shells found nowhere else on earth. Absolutely stunning Niihau shells! 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. There . This design was inspired by Victoria Feinberg. Read. What a life! When combined with kahelelani and sunrise shells, you can get stunning results! Its sad that this is happening. Dont see this option? The login page will open in a new tab. With an official notary, Niihau shells can be evaluated based on its strain and style of stringing. Theres beach access on both ends of Alamoo and you can usually park on Alealea road. It is roughly 18.6 miles long and 6.2 miles wide. I bought mine from a Spouting Horn vendor about ten years ago. Did you highlight the link and "copy" it and then "paste" it to the web address line? 00:00. Ever since I learned about Niihau on my last trip to Hawaii, Ive been eager to plan a trip to this remote island. The songs in this CD will transport you to Hawaiian soil, with the sound of waves of Waikiki and the breathtaking sunrise at Haleakala. 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. Understandably, the rare shells are highly valued works of art both on display and for . But if you are patient! If you don't see it, it might be in your junk/spam folder. 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. About Us $1,485.00, $1,650.00 several thousand dollars for a multi-strand ni'ihau shell lei! Set where you live, what language you speak, and the currency you use. Among things prohibited are alcohol, drugs, guns, beards, long hair, tattoos, and piercings. Some songs feature the voice of the late, great Israel IZ Kamakawiwaole. Niihau, Hawaiian Ni'ihau, volcanic island, Kauai county, Hawaii, U.S. Niihau lies 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Kauai island. But dont let that story deter you. At Ali'i Kauai Tours and Charters, we offer one better: A two-for-one air experience. 1. :-). what a prize when we find one! Original Price $125.00 Here are the official colors and flowers of Hawaiian islands from the bottom to the top, Hawaii to Ni'ihau. 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. My last purchase there was an amazing "sunrise" shell. Its area is 69.5 square miles (180 km 2 ). Polihale is one of the best shell beaches on Kauai and an amazing experience! The island of Ni'ihau lies 17 mile off the west coast of Kauai. Sunnys grow in deep water and rarely wash to the shore. Both 14K yellow gold hooks and sterling silver are available. There is a palpable individuality to all shell creations from Ni'ihau. I love it and consider it one of my most prized jewelry items. Kahelelani shells/Niihau - . I would like toknow where to look. These are kahelelani. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. swmarket: thanks for the Na Mea rec; it was on the Oahu recommended list, too and I really love that shop! The stringing and quality of finish are incredible. It is finished with granulated cowries and a n 18k clasp. Monica Wachman, Leaf Group. And shells! I bought a beautiful pair of Ni'ihau Kahelelani Shell earrings at this shop. 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. I would like toknow where to look. Traditionally worn at weddings but stunning for any occasion is this 10 strand Laiki or Rice shell lei measuring in at 36". Does shopping on Etsy help support small businesses? Ahhh Polihale. Their prices tend to be high, although I bought a lei there many years ago. 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. Kahelelani is the smallest, most valuable and hardest to prepare. Yes, its a place full of natural beauty, paradise in many places. Some of the kinds of shells you'll find. Our main goal is to pair the right piece with it's soul mate. It came with a certificate of authenticity and the name of the artisan that created it. Chapter 486, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows: "486- Niihau shells; representing content. Instead, there are plenty of venues in Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island that offer authentic Ni'ihau shell leis and jewelry. A lot depends on the shells, the pattern and how skilled the maker was. Apparently there used to be a dump there many years ago and this is where the glass came from. 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. Although, Poleho can be picked on Ni'ihau, our Poleho shells are. Legally, this term refers only to shells actuallygathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. The surrounding coral beds remain unspoiled and untouched by outside influences, allowing the tiny shells . Theres something timeless about walking along a beach looking for shells isnt there? These tiny, gorgeous shells wash up on the island of Ni'ihau, which is inaccessible to the public. 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. 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. Sunrise shells are a fascinating member of the scallop or pecten family that live in deep Hawaiian waters. Finished in 14K with 14K spacers. Made only on Niihau, a private island off Kauais west side, the lei are known as one of Polynesias finest ART FORMS . 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. Any items in this set can be sold separately. Some of the technologies we use are necessary for critical functions like security and site integrity, account authentication, security and privacy preferences, internal site usage and maintenance data, and to make the site work correctly for browsing and transactions. The highest elevation on Ni'ihau is 1,280 feet above sea level. You can also find online shops to purchase them. :-) Report inappropriate content AkamaiNick4SW Maui By Kevin Whitton, author of Moon Hawaii. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Because there are fewer Kahelelani on this piece, the pricing is very affordable at $700 for the necklace, $200 for the bracelet and $75 for the earrings. I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. And be especially careful up on the rocks on the north end of the beach. Shelling at Larsens is a wonderful experience. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. Every Ni'ihau shell creation we offer is made with care and selected for quality and originality. Stunning. I will email the photos to you if you don't mind publishing your email address here. With 14K strong magnet clasp it attaches to bracelet to wear long, or can be worn as 3 pieces. Photos taken through glass along with bright light reflectance blurred and obscrubed much detail (plus my shaky hands did not help). The colors here are Akala Pua Waipapipi (hot pink), O'mao O'mao (green), and Ele Ele (dark brown). Gorgeous 7 mile beach, stunning pointed cliffs and miles of ocean. While many of the items on Etsy are handmade, youll also find craft supplies, digital items, and more. Kahelelani, momi or laiki gathered from other islands are not authentic "Ni'ihau" shells per Hawaii State Law H.B. MF Silver, Kealia . 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! (Also, I did update your comment for you! Kapono Ni`ihau Shell Lei 2. For each, is a person who will love and treasure it. :-), This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the K Hawaii Paeina (Hawaiian Kingdom) people. Item #198. Free housing is provided by the Robinsons. Our famous Alice in Hulaland T-Shirts made on the softest T-shirts we can find and handmade Alice Dresses and Alice T-Shirt Cut-Ups only found in our store. 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. 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. . Let me know in the comments! My latest one was purchased from a Spouting Horn vendor and it came with a certificate of authenticity. Earrings additional $85. Hawaiian is their first language, English is second. What was your favorite or best purchase in Hawaii? Custom Shell Jewelry. 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. Well it may be a trek to get there even in your 4 x 4.. but its worth it. Including Sunrise shells & Puka shells. All words and images 2013-2023 The Kolibro Group LLC. The island has mysteriously been "protected" from outsiders since the 1800s. Ni'ihau shells are one of the most priced art forms of the Hawaiian culture because the practice has been done for hundreds of years dating pre-western contact. My biggest issue is to get an authentic one, not a knock-off. Kahelelani is the smallest, most valuable and hardest to prepare. The native iron compounds in the earth possibly reacted with tannins in the gourd, creating black and dark reddish-brown patterns. This set is a matching combination of white Ke'Oke'O Momi shells and Pink Akala Pua Kahelelani. Please log in again. Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers. A private island with a population of mostly pure Native Hawaiian descent, Ni'ihau has no rivers running into the ocean. 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 . I'm also asking on the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Be aware not all shells are Ni'ihau shells. A good necklace should be well-matched for color and well-graded small to large from the clasp down to the center. Visit Oahu, Kauai, and Maui! $450.00, $600.00 I feel blessed to live in such a magical, beautiful place. They soon became popular among high society southern ladies and became a staple of pearl and jewelry styles. She advised looking and investigating very carefully.it seems that there are what appear to be " knock offs " out there. A jaw dropping array of all colors of Momi and Kahelelani are visible but the ultimate prize is incredible construction and consistency of stringing. For us back then it was a rather extravagant purchase. Vintage momi shells were gathered in early 1990's. They are high luster, with sparkling brilliance and glass-like feel and surface textures. Bracelet is burgundy or Ula Ula Kahelelani sewn with momi shells in the heliconia fashion. Francesca. 3940 Hanapp Road, (808) 335-5586 Answer 11 of 14: Are there any beaches where visitors can find the beautiful Sunrise shells? Today, the craft of lei-making with Niihau shells is protected thanks to a law enacted by the Hawaii state legislature in 2004 (source). Feel free to contact me via phone or email if you have any questions or are interested in designing a piece! 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. Ad . Anyway, your opinions matter to me! Photo: Drawing by W. Ellis of Ni`ihau and Lehua in 1778 Ni'ihau Shell Lei - a Part of Ni'ihau Culture for Centuries 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 ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-59044165', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Oahu, and I'm sure Jebett, KoloaGirl, and others here on the Kauai forum will have more ideas for you. Ni'ihau is probably most famous for the Ni'ihau shell necklaces or lei, which are handcrafted on-island. 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. They are valued like a one-of-a-kind diamond necklace. Located on the island of 'Oahu, w e sale primarily at craft fairs, public events, and fundraising events. Big Blue Princeville 96722 . 2. There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. Sometimes "quality" is in the eye of the beholder so buy what you love! 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. To live in such a beautiful place filled. 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. when you sign up for the 101 Things To Do email newsletter! All rights reserved. Wait time on a lei of this style is between 3 and 6 weeks generally. There are four species of Ni'ihau shells, or Pupu 'O Ni'ihau. This classic look first made it's splash when Queen Emmalani wore her Laiki shell lei abroad to meet diplomats in Europe. Just a word of caution when identifying Niihau shells. If you opened this thread to learn what I'm talking about, here's some info: http://www.niihauheritage.org/niihau_history.htm, Well, it's not (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Item #196 Length8 inches Value$1,200 [ made to order ] Inquire Ha'aheo, Hawaiian Crafts. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. 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. Original Price $600.00 Kauai Crystal Sanctuary Anahola 96703 . Pink, Burgundy, Kamoa yellow in heliconia or crownflower stitch for the same cost. Fun to look tho..Maybe a single choker strand for me? Kauai Advisor ~ Francesca Azuremare ~ has lived on Kauai for 22 years. Finished with a 14K hook and eye clasp and granulated cowry, this is a spectacularly traditional lei. 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) These earrings represent a beautiful PoePoe weave and can be ordered with any color of Ni'ihau Kahelelani. Just 17 miles from the coastline of Kauai, Hawaii boasts a historic restricted area: the small, 70-square-mile island of Niihau . A few other terms includekahakaha(striped),nikiniki(spotted),puupuu(bumpy), and evenwaha ulaula(red mouth). Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. 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. Taro K Chip Factory The bestand freshesttaro chips in the state, period. Another question for the Kauai locals - Do you think Oahu would be any better or worse to shop for my new lei? It is the most beautiful shell I have seen and it has the most variation in color and patterning in the entire ocean~. Ni'ihau Shells More Listed on Feb 26, 2023 One favorite Report this item to Etsy . An ipu pwehe sitting amongst ipu vines. Niihau shell, Heliconia dangle earrings made with vintage, momi ke'oke'o (pure white) shells and Kauai Kahelelani. there aren't many tools needed either, just stringing line and lots of time! Inquire for bulk or re-sale pricing. 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!. In the gaps between the shells, Ive been gifted with more than a few big cowrie shells among others. Original Price $95.00 The small shells used in Ni'ihau lei are named after him. And those were expensive at Maui Hands as well, but I felt the prices overall were a tad better.