This remote beach is a great shell beach on Kauai. 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! Kahelelani, momi or laiki gathered from other islands are not authentic "Ni'ihau" shells per Hawaii State Law H.B. Still want to check it out! Etsy is powered by 100% renewable electricity. Apparently there used to be a dump there many years ago and this is where the glass came from. Buy your's now as they may not be available again. when you sign up for the 101 Things To Do email newsletter! This is an excellent start, I appreciate your help. The 72-square-mile Niihau is everything the major Hawaiian islands Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and its neighbor Kauai are not. Sometimes "quality" is in the eye of the beholder so buy what you love! Every piece you purchase from our Ni'ihau collection comes with the stringer's name and a detailed description of the shells on your lei and their Hawaiian names of color and shell. $44.10, $49.00 If you want to learn about Niihaus history, Niihau: The Last Hawaiian Island by Ruth M. Tabrah is a great way to start. The most prized are the deep reds, hot pinks, and the dark chocolate colored ones. Ni'ihau Shells More Listed on Feb 26, 2023 One favorite Report this item to Etsy . Both 14K yellow gold hooks and sterling silver are available. It's actually far more interesting a piece than the higher quality ones simply because of it's varied coloration. The Niihauans have names for all the variations of shell color and pattern. It is roughly 18.6 miles long and 6.2 miles wide. 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. Kahelelani are the tiniest and most prized of the shells used to create Hawaiian shell leis. :D. Learn more. 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. MauiPuaLani (26) $95.00 FREE shipping 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. 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 only job available on Niihau is at the Robinson family ranch, where the majority of the population works raising cattle. I forgot to add in my postings about the Nihau shells. The login page will open in a new tab. When taken to the highest level, they are undoubtedly fine art. If you want to know about Kauais Top Beaches in general, check out my post on that here. Photo: Drawing by W. Ellis of Ni`ihau and Lehua in 1778 Ni'ihau Shell Lei - a Part of Ni'ihau Culture for Centuries I have one from the Black Pearl (?) Read more in my Privacy Policy. Pamela Dow, a Kekaha retailer of the jewelry, hopes to elevate the art form to . The Story Behind Ni'ihau: Hawaii's Forbidden Island - Culture Trip Among things prohibited are alcohol, drugs, guns, beards, long hair, tattoos, and piercings. Enjoy the combinations of Kahelelani, momi, and sunrise shells displayed on my site. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Another question for the Kauai locals - Do you think Oahu would be any better or worse to shop for my new lei? Some songs feature the voice of the late, great Israel IZ Kamakawiwaole. 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. 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 ? These earrings represent a beautiful PoePoe weave and can be ordered with any color of Ni'ihau Kahelelani. Kalaheo, Kauai, Hawaii 96741-0348 Niihau Aloha 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. Best Shell beaches on Kauai - Kauai Advisor Shells,Sunrise, Puka, Cowrie :-) Report inappropriate content AkamaiNick4SW Maui The lei can be connected with the bracelet to make a longer necklace while the earrings make a perfect compliment for any style. New statutory material is underscored. Kauai has many beaches and so heres my pick of the best shell beaches on Kauai! And be especially careful up on the rocks on the north end of the beach. The shells carefully collected on the Island of Ni`ihau Hawaii, known as the Forbidden Island. Not sure why but there seem to be more shells here than anywhere else. Website by: Emagine, gathered on the shores of the Forbidden Island. With powerful tools and services, along with expert support and education, we help creative entrepreneurs start, manage, and scale their businesses. Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources allows you to collect seashells for personal use but not for resale. Typically, orders of $35 USD or more (within the same shop) qualify for free standard shipping from participating Etsy sellers. "Ikigai" Wrap Pants - Tattoo in Black/Bronze Lotus & Lime $49.95. Many sellers on Etsy offer personalized, made-to-order items. Nice to know in not the ink hone with that bad habit! Niihau Shell Lei: Hawaii Travel & Things To Do In Hawaii - Aloha With Love I had "rat-holed" birthday and Christmas money for a year or so, and had nice sum to spend, but NOTHING like $5000. 20 . Some colors of shells I can't wear. Up to 20 inches $10,000. Some Niihau shell leis have been known to be valued for up to $20,000. Price tag: $20,000. 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. Please. 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. Another practical souvenir, this printed towel shows the Hawaiian Islands in a vintage-style map. SECTION 3. (2) The product or jewelry item is fabricated, processed, or manufactured entirely within this State. pzp--that's encouraging, as I doubt I could really afford the thousands range! I will email the photos to you if you don't mind publishing your email address here. Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha by the Mkaha Sons of Niihau is full of traditional Hawaiian tunes. I talked with her for a bit - very interesting. In addition, the people from Niihau also grow their own fruits and vegetables. This bracelet features gorgeous shells with a modern design and is finished with a 14K Gold safety clasp. (10% off), Sale Price $1,350.00 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). 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). a great shell beach on Kauai! 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. What a life! . When combined with kahelelani, momi, and kamoa, the variations are endless. N I ' I H A U - S H E L L S - Coco's Trading Post Sunrise Shells - Kauai Forum - Tripadvisor The island has mysteriously been "protected" from outsiders since the 1800s. Gorgeous 7 mile beach, stunning pointed cliffs and miles of ocean. Taro K Chip Factory The bestand freshesttaro chips in the state, period. 0 . 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. ), Your email address will not be published. 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. You can dress long in the flapper fashion, short as a choker, or as a waistband beach accessory. The land was purchased in 1864 from King Kamehameha V and is in many ways a time capsule of life in early Hawaii. Youll see some people use it as decoration due to its vibrant colors and large size. Niihau: Hawaii's "Forbidden Island" That's In Dangerous Decline 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. Inquire for wholesale pricing. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. Kapono Ni`ihau Shell Lei 1. I was born on the East Coast and currently live in the Midwest but my heart will always be out West. 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. magical! 1. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. $1,350.00, $1,800.00 I bought mine from a Spouting Horn vendor about ten years ago. There are many books to learn about Niihau, but here are a few that tackle interesting topics. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. There are no ferry services taxiing tourists to Niihau from the other islands, and as you'd expect, no flights to Niihau, either. Including Sunrise shells & Puka shells. In 2020 alone, purchases on Etsy generated nearly $4 billion in income for small businesses. an array of intriguing island finds, like Ni'ihau Shell Leis, Hawaiian collectibles, and local jewelry and gifts. (25% off), Sale Price $1,485.00 Original Price $95.00 Ni'ihau shell lei are one of Hawaii's most authentic and sought after treasures. For generations, the people of Ni'ihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. Niihau, Hawaiian Ni'ihau, volcanic island, Kauai county, Hawaii, U.S. Niihau lies 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Kauai island. This set is a feature of Ula Ula Burgundy shell accents in a strong base of Pikake strung Momi shells. And those were expensive at Maui Hands as well, but I felt the prices overall were a tad better. Traditionally worn at weddings but stunning for any occasion is this 10 strand Laiki or Rice shell lei measuring in at 36". 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!) 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 The necklaces can sell for an average of $125 to $25,000, and state law protects the Niihau label. You can also find online shops to purchase them. From this website, I have a list of approved sellers: http://www.niihauheritage.org/niihau_shells.htm. Last I checked, multi-strand chokers were going for at least $100/strand, but that may be outdated. I love it and consider it one of my most prized jewelry items. Kauai, with its close proximity to Niihau, has an abundant choice of these UNUSUAL AND HANDCRAFTED shell lei. To live in such a beautiful place filled. This topic was brought up on the Europe board and it helped me greatly during my Med cruise last October. SECTION 2. There are no cars, running water, or telephones on Ni'ihau. Top Things to Do in Kauai, Hawaii: See Tripadvisor's 554,711 traveller reviews and photos of Kauai tourist attractions. Answer 11 of 14: Are there any beaches where visitors can find the beautiful Sunrise shells? Can you check the link for me? 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 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. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. 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. Copyright 101 Things To Do. Ni'ihau - Maui Hands Printed products with designs that resonate with the Forbidden Island make lovely Niaihau souvenirs. (25% off), Sale Price $67.50 The small shells used in Ni'ihau lei are named after him. Our options for clasps are boundless and our collection of gem quality cowry are fabulous. 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. Not even enough for one necklace. About Niihau Island - THE FORBIDDEN ISLAND 2. These are our Ni'ihau shell post earrings. 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!. It is finished with granulated cowries and a n 18k clasp. Shown below are examples of different styles and colors. $85.50, $95.00 Sunrise Shells - Kauai Forum - Tripadvisor Be sure you're getting authentic Ni`ihau shells. Here are the official colors and flowers of Hawaiian islands from the bottom to the top, Hawaii to Ni'ihau. (I'm looking at this purchase as I'd do a diamond, a little research goes a long way!). To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to exploreNative Land. 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) The viewing area perched above the jagged crumbling . The people of Ni'ihau called . This bracelet features gorgeous shells with a modern design and is finished with a 14K Gold safety clasp. The value of a lei is also impacted by the availability of certain shells. From the time we are children, its something we all want to do! Take full advantage of our site features by enabling JavaScript. We provide certificates of authenticity with every Ni'ihau creation and in some cases an appraisal free of charge. Custom orders are always welcome. I would like toknow where to look. Inquire to have photos sent to you of most current inventory since we often have incredible lei that are not yet posted online. Its easy to find pictures of Queen Kapiolani wearing beautiful multi-strand lei as jewelry. Sunrise Shell Lei Kauai Kahelelani Shell Lei Hawaii Shells Beach Jewelry Eco-Friendly Collected Rare Shells Island Mermaid Sunrise Shell ad vertisement by KauaiShellsandMore. 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. In fairness, the one I really loved was the much rarer pink shells. This is a sample of the lei varieties that we create and curate as heirlooms. Comes with Certificate of Authenticity, Bill of sale with detailed information on your lei. The Shells of Niihau. Niihau Lookout Information, Directions & More - Hawaii Guide Mine was handed down to me, so I can't help much eithersorry! It is certifiable with 85% Niihau Shells and features a sunrise shell Centerpiece and sterling silver adjustable length clasp. Feel free to contact me via phone or email if you have any questions or are interested in designing a piece! But the other end and in between, you may come across some finds. Hawaiian is their first language, English is second. Both bracelet 7" and necklace 19" can be combined to create a longer 26" lei for versatile wear. A lot depends on the shells, the pattern and how skilled the maker was. Original Price $125.00 Ni'ihau Shells - Ha'aheo, Hawaiian Crafts 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. Utterly fantastic workmanship and quality of shells. Niihau shells - ShellsHawaii.com Do you mind if I ask how much the Nihau leis cost? Absolutely! The towel is a perfect size to carry around when you need it for laying out on a beach day. Good luck in your hunt for your gorgeous Niihau shell lei, Plumeria! The art of Ni'ihau shell lei making is a precious cultural gift -- if you own a lei you can tell people who made it, where the shells were collected, what types of shells, and the generations of the family that made it passing down this knowledge makes this a true treasure. Monica Wachman, Leaf Group. Purchasing a CD might sound outdated with Spotify or iTunes today. I did buy the gorgeous book Totally Hawaiian has on Niihau shell lei, which I highly recommend. Well it may be a trek to get there even in your 4 x 4.. but its worth it. This stunning set can come in any color or style in varied lengths. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. It came with a certificate of authenticity and the name of the artisan that created it. Only In Your State. 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 Anini Beach -- you can look at them closely and see how weathered they are and how many pukas (holes) they have in them. Still, bringing music (in a physical format) from a foreign land is an excellent idea to relive your moments there. The Value of Tradition in Ni'ihau Shell Leis - Hawaii Estate & Jewelry It is the most beautiful shell I have seen and it has the most variation in color and patterning in the entire ocean~. A Glimpse Inside Hawaii's 'Forbidden Island' - HuffPost Expect to see knockoff s with slightly different labels. Ni'ihau leis shells - Man And Mollusc Niihau Island - Niihau Map, Photos and Hawaii Information From handmade pieces to vintage treasures ready to be loved again, Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. This will differ depending on what options are available for the item. The tiny shells wash up already vacant from the snails that they once housed. Theres beach access on both ends of Alamoo and you can usually park on Alealea road. 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. 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. Just a word of caution when identifying Niihau shells. 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! It is in excellent condition and very striking to wear and to look at. A Peek Inside Niihau: Hawaii's "Forbidden Island" - TripSavvy Kahelelani Shells 3 strands twisted bracelet | eBay Item #195, Ni'ihau Designer Tahitian Pearl Bracelet sewn with high quality Akala Pua Kahelelani and A Grade Tahitian Pearls. 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. As she said best shell beach on the island. It's the Hawaiian way. It's estimated that around 150 Native Hawaiians inhabit Niihau today. It is the most incredible form of recycling that I have found. 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 one I REALLY loved was $5000! Wait time on a lei of this style is between 3 and 6 weeks generally. 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. From beach cover-ups and sundresses to Kauai logo tees and the all-popular Kauai Rooster cap. Ahhh Polihale. Stunning. Thanks in advance for your replies. Aloha Kahelelani - The Finest Quality Hawaiian Shell Jewelry It is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) southwest of Kauai across the Kaulakahi Channel. Each piece of Ni'ihau jewelry we carry is in compliance with all laws protecting Ni'ihau shells in Hawaii. I'd love to check it out! I so wanted a necklace but couldn't afford it :( I did end up getting some earrings. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Over 80% by count Niihau shells, this piece is a high fashion statement. Can be sold individually or with earrings. Some of the kinds of shells you'll find. This perfect Heleconia Lei has a fine detailed blend of Akala Pua Pink and Ula Ula Burgundy shells. These earrings will not be duplicated in the future. 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. Post Office Box 348 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. Indeed it is. The native iron compounds in the earth possibly reacted with tannins in the gourd, creating black and dark reddish-brown patterns. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. Its not a great swimming beach, theres lots of rocks and stones but theres also lots of pools because of that. The Mkaha Sons are famous for championing traditional Hawaiian music, and their incredible harmonies took them to prestigious places like Carnegie Hall. However, I find that when I fall in love with an item, it's always the most expensive in the case! Free housing is provided by the Robinsons. At Ali'i Kauai Tours and Charters, we offer one better: A two-for-one air experience. Big wave beach Lumahai can yield some amazing shells.. just be careful in the water. Kahelelani shells/Niihau - . Aloha! Here are two photos of Niihau shell necklaces in a collection at Hawaiian Trading Post at Kalaheo. It just means you don't get the fancy, multi-strand long lei. This includes both online and at gift shops across Hawaii. The color and size matching, plus the graduated thickness of the lei is really superb. Niihau Shell Leis - Kauai Boat Tours Hypoallergenic 14K gold ear wire.