I've saved some excellent information from this forum, thanks to those of you with experience! For most of the state's residents, that's the only way to see the island of Niihau. On Ni'ihau, after the designs were carved into the skin, the gourds were said to have been buried in black mud. Its on the best shell beaches on Kauai. The people of Ni'ihau called . 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. 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 . of Niihaus history and surroundings. Alternatively, you may use, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas. 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. Without a doubt, Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha should be in any Hawaiian music fans collection. Ni'ihau is an island off the southwest coast of Kaua'i. Ni'ihau also goes by the name, The Forbidden Island, because the island is privately owned. Still, bringing music (in a physical format) from a foreign land is an excellent idea to relive your moments there. Sellers looking to grow their business and reach more interested buyers can use Etsys advertising platform to promote their items. Length and clasp can be adjustable. We have many types of earrings, also silver hooks available at reduced cost. Here's the website list of Kauai sellers: Waimea Canyon General Store/Forever Kauai (Kekaha). 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. 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.. Niihau shell, Heliconia dangle earrings made with vintage, momi ke'oke'o (pure white) shells and Kauai Kahelelani. This perfect Heleconia Lei has a fine detailed blend of Akala Pua Pink and Ula Ula Burgundy shells. Kauai. Yikes! Some antique pieces we carry have been refinished for quality purposes. We only know that both volcanoes formed about 6 million years ago. The 72-square-mile Niihau is everything the major Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and its neighbor Kauai are not. This "forbidden" island is inhabited by approximately 200 full-blooded Hawaiians that keep completely to themselves. Ni'ihau is estimated to be 4.9-6 million years old. A Sunrise Shell on Kauai looks like a Sunrise.a half moon of yellows and oranges and reds with the shape above. swmarket: thanks for the Na Mea rec; it was on the Oahu recommended list, too and I really love that shop! 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. When combined with kahelelani, momi, and kamoa, the variations are endless. 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. There are no cars, running water, or telephones on Ni'ihau. Kea Biker Shorts Aloha Mlie $30.95. Does shopping on Etsy help support small businesses? Inquire to choose your very own sunrise shell for this design. 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). 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. Sizes can be adjusted and pieces can be sold separately. Niihau, Hawaii's "Forbidden Island.". Youll see some people use it as decoration due to its vibrant colors and large size. 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. Designs by Teresa Kapaa 96746 . (10% off), Sale Price $44.10 Finished in 14K with 14K spacers. Legally, this term refers only to shells actually gathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. And you are so right, Barbara, it's not the price. Glass Beach Jewelry Designs 96714 . . At 17.5 miles from Kauai, Niihau is the 7th largest of the inhabited Hawaiian islands. Thanks in advance for your replies. I would love to hear what you end up buying, with all the details! 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. We also created 2.6 million jobs in the U.S.enough to employ the entire city of Houston, TX! With a Made in Hawaii selection of Aloha shirts and neckties for men, we offer something for everyone! There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. The Big Island - Red - Lehua flower First, The Big Island is red for the fire goddess Pele who lives there, lava is also red. Less than a mile up the Waimea Canyon Drive between mile markers 13 and 14 is the large Pu'u Hinahina Lookout. All have been fully authenticated by makers from Ni`ihau. "Ikigai" Wrap Pants - Tattoo in Teal Tiare Lotus & Lime $49.95. "Ikigai" Wrap Pants - Tattoo in Black/Bronze Lotus & Lime $49.95. Start here. The songs in this CD will transport you to Hawaiian soil, with the sound of waves of Waikiki and the breathtaking sunrise at Haleakala. 3940 Hanapp Road, (808) 335-5586 Made only on Niihau, a private island off Kauais west side, the lei are known as one of Polynesias finest ART FORMS . Article Sources Big Blue Princeville 96722 . Their display of vintage lei is quite interesting, too. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. 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. Absolutely! Under Add your personalization, the text box will tell you what the seller needs to know. Its easy to find pictures of Queen Kapiolani wearing beautiful multi-strand lei as jewelry. the big truck a few feet from the water and a lady out front with a massive police type light that was lighting up the entire beach but definitely spotlighting the sand. Shells featured are Akala Pua Kahelelani sewn Poe Poe with sections of A Grade South Sea Golden Pearl. Things go up from there. Indeed it is. 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. And my "little" one came from the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Available by order only. It is finished with granulated cowries and a n 18k clasp. All rights reserved. For generations, the people of Ni'ihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. Wait time on a lei of this style is between 3 and 6 weeks generally. But the other end and in between, you may come across some finds. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. 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. I'm heading to Hawaii in May for my first time. Ni'ihau Helicopters Office Drive to Port Allen Airport 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 . Here are two photos of Niihau shell necklaces in a collection at Hawaiian Trading Post at Kalaheo. Made of precious pupu o Niihau shells, no lei is the same, showing the versatile craft of each Hawaiaan Leimaker. Most, if not all . I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. $67.50, $90.00 3864 Iona Road, (808) 634-0101, blu-umi.com 8. 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 (50% off), Sale Price $85.50 The Mkaha Sons are famous for championing traditional Hawaiian music, and their incredible harmonies took them to prestigious places like Carnegie Hall. Vintage momi shells were gathered in early 1990's. They are high luster, with sparkling brilliance and glass-like feel and surface textures. 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. These earrings will not be duplicated in the future. Finding a sunrise shell that way is just money. Some colors of shells I can't wear. The average size of Kahelelani shells will . Cowrie - all different varieties. 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 physic 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) It's known as "The Forbidden Island" in Hawaii, and the nickname isn't an exaggeration. Still, Coffee lovers wont find a better way to sip their morning coffee than this Niihau coffee mug. -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. Kauai, with its close proximity to Niihau, has an abundant choice of these UNUSUAL AND HANDCRAFTED shell lei. Sold with earrings as a set or individually is a single strand pikake stitch lei comprised of medium grey Uli Uli shells. The color and size matching, plus the graduated thickness of the lei is really superb. It has just over 100 year-round residents, and they live completely off the grid in a self-sustaining ecosystem. Hawaii is known for many shells found nowhere else on earth. New statutory material is underscored. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, Emperors Emporium has the largest selection of island-inspired jewelry, clothing and Red Dirt shirts, gifts. mamma, you can get away with spending MUCH less than a couple of grand. With large 7-10mm A grade Tahitian pearls this represents a certifiable Niihau shell lei with the fashionable compliment of pearls. One of the most expensive items HNN came across was a three-strand Ni'ihau shell lei. Heres where you can purchase authentic Niihau shell leis: Each of these locations offers Niihau shell leis that should be documented and authentic. 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. The wedding leis of Niihau are often made with "laiki" or "rice" shells. Legally, this term refers only to shells actuallygathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. Understandably, the rare shells are highly valued works of art both on display and for . Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers. Original Price $1,800.00 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. 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. They arent stones, of course, but TINY SHELLS that are rare and precious. Im also a not-so-secret space nerd and speak fluent emoji! Dont see this option? We did receive a letter of authenticity, but it has long since been lost. 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 ? 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. Item# 16H01WR0250. Cones Leopard cone, Hebrew cone, Marble cone, others. 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. If you don't see it, it might be in your junk/spam folder. 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. For each, is a person who will love and treasure it. In fact, the Hawaiian language is spoken almost . Many sellers on Etsy offer personalized, made-to-order items. 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. Fill out the requested information. This is the beach right in front of Alamoo road, thats the dirt track road which is just north of the Hanalei Colony Resort. Beautiful! I was born on the East Coast and currently live in the Midwest but my heart will always be out West. Colors and lengths can vary depending on what is in stock. Beautiful works of art. This bracelet features gorgeous shells with a modern design and is finished with a 14K Gold safety clasp. Consistently earned 5-star reviews, shipped orders on time, and replied quickly to messages, Looks like you already have an account! Though the nickname stuck, luckily visiting the island is no longer forbidden. Remembering you arent in Hawaii anymore as soon as you wake, isnt exactly appealing. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. These shells are very unique, and they are found only on the island of Ni'ihau. This particular piece is from an estate collection and was well cared for. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. 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. We happily supply curated items to galleries with educational materials. That was NOT in my budget! The lei can be connected with the bracelet to make a longer necklace while the earrings make a perfect compliment for any style. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Anyway the photos give an idea what we are discussing. Some songs feature the voice of the late, great Israel IZ Kamakawiwaole. As she said best shell beach on the island. 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). Kauai Rainbow Connection 96714 . Mon-Sat 10:30am . This piece features nearly every color of Kahelelani and Momi. Kahelelani are the tiniest and most prized of the shells used to create Hawaiian shell leis. Each lei can take up to six months to complete. Niihau Island lies 17 miles southwest of Kauai. Want to know more? It is certifiable with 85% Niihau Shells and features a sunrise shell Centerpiece and sterling silver adjustable length clasp. Found something you love but want to make it even more uniquely you? A jaw dropping array of all colors of Momi and Kahelelani are visible but the ultimate prize is incredible construction and consistency of stringing. Poe Poe SSG Pearl Lei strung expertly by a master designer. And be especially careful up on the rocks on the north end of the beach. I would like toknow where to look. What I'm seeking is an actual person or two who've purchased from someone on Kauai if it was a positive experience. Custom orders are always welcome. So you only have two options for setting foot on the island: take a helicopter tour from Kauai or .