(b) Except as provided herein, no person shall offer, display, expose for sale, or solicit for sale any product or jewelry item fabricated, processed, or manufactured with seashells, that is described, labeled, or identified using the term "Niihau" or "Niihau", either alone or in conjunction with other words, or in a trade or brand name, unless: (1) One hundred per cent of all shells in the product or jewelry item are Niihau shells; and. 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. This set is a feature of Ula Ula Burgundy shell accents in a strong base of Pikake strung Momi shells. Only In Your State. Send me exclusive offers, unique gift ideas, and personalized tips for shopping and selling on Etsy. I also have purchased one from a shop at Kilhana (which I'm not sure is still there). Sunnys grow in deep water and rarely wash to the shore. We only know that both volcanoes formed about 6 million years ago. Available by order only. They are unisex and come in different colors and sizes. Beautiful! Kahelelani, momi or laiki gathered from other islands are not authentic "Ni'ihau" shells per Hawaii State Law H.B. Kauai & Niihau Airplane Tours. Less than a mile up the Waimea Canyon Drive between mile markers 13 and 14 is the large Pu'u Hinahina Lookout. I'm heading to Hawaii in May for my first time. The colors here are Akala Pua Waipapipi (hot pink), O'mao O'mao (green), and Ele Ele (dark brown). The Kahelelani shell is the most sought after of the rare Niihau and Kauaian shells. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. Inquire for photos of different sets. Utterly fantastic workmanship and quality of shells. Thank you for all of your replys.Sounds like the place to look is The Trading Post, and expect at least a couple grand? The square mileage of Ni'ihau is roughly 70 square miles. (a) For the purposes of this section, "Niihau shells" means seashells harvested from the island of Niihau, its waters, or its beaches. The kahelelani poe poe blend has all the colors represented in a symmetrical match of width and length. Located on the island of 'Oahu, w e sale primarily at craft fairs, public events, and fundraising events. 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. Beautiful works of art. About Us $85.50, $95.00 Up to 20 inches $10,000. Monica Wachman, Leaf Group. Stunning craftsmanship by an expert leimaker. The stringing and quality of finish are incredible. When combined with kahelelani, momi, and kamoa, the variations are endless. 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 . The people of Ni'ihau called . Under Add your personalization, the text box will tell you what the seller needs to know. And be especially careful up on the rocks on the north end of the beach. 01:00. I have found many different shells at Larsens but the gifts of the shells fade into the background compared to the peace and joy of just sitting and sifting or walking along Kaakaaniu beach. Including Sunrise shells & Puka shells. 0 . The only job available on Niihau is at the Robinson family ranch, where the majority of the population works raising cattle. With such a fascinating history, anyone would love to learn about Niihaus culture, the settlers, and how it came to be such a secluded place. 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!) Sizes can be adjusted and pieces can be sold separately. Finished with 14K Gold and GEM quality cypraea granulata. Once we receive an email from you, we will respond in a detailed and timely manner. Ad . It is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) southwest of Kauai across the Kaulakahi Channel. She advised looking and investigating very carefully.it seems that there are what appear to be " knock offs " out there. These earrings represent a beautiful PoePoe weave and can be ordered with any color of Ni'ihau Kahelelani. The Mkaha Sons are famous for championing traditional Hawaiian music, and their incredible harmonies took them to prestigious places like Carnegie Hall. I've saved some excellent information from this forum, thanks to those of you with experience! . Its also home to a whole host of one-of-a-kind items made with love and extraordinary care. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. Photos taken through glass along with bright light reflectance blurred and obscrubed much detail (plus my shaky hands did not help). more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Kauai has many beaches and so heres my pick of the best shell beaches on Kauai! The most famous and cherished is the Sunrise Shell, aka Sunny. Be aware not all shells are Ni'ihau shells. Captcha failed to load. And those were expensive at Maui Hands as well, but I felt the prices overall were a tad better. Not sure why but there seem to be more shells here than anywhere else. For each, is a person who will love and treasure it. 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. Some colors of shells I can't wear. To enable personalized advertising (like interest-based ads), we may share your data with our marketing and advertising partners using cookies and other technologies. are highly sought after and valued as such. Although most of the names given in this website are fairly standard among shell lei makers, the shells pictured here and the descriptive names were all supplied by Kanani, an experienced shell lei artisan. Earrings are 14K french hooks. 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. 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. After logging in you can close it and return to this page. Don't expect to find the valuable tiny Niihau shells that comprised the jewelry of Hawaiian royalty - they only wash ashore on Niihau, the Forbidden Island. With powerful tools and services, along with expert support and education, we help creative entrepreneurs start, manage, and scale their businesses. Kauai Advisor ~ Francesca Azuremare ~ has lived on Kauai for 22 years. Purchasing a CD might sound outdated with Spotify or iTunes today. (25% off), Sale Price $67.50 Read more in my Privacy Policy. Things go up from there. Our global marketplace is a vibrant community of real people connecting over special goods. On Ni'ihau, after the designs were carved into the skin, the gourds were said to have been buried in black mud. They are often collected by divers and sold for surprising amounts of cash ($30-$2000 a piece!) Etsy is powered by 100% renewable electricity. Its certainly pretty when the pieces are shimmering in the sun. That was NOT in my budget! They can also be found on Kaua`i and Moloka`i, but those lack the luster of the authentic ones. There was a problem subscribing you to this newsletter. It hardly ever rains at Polihale so you can do that; nothing like looking at the canopy of the stars. Kea Biker Shorts Aloha Mlie $30.95. when you sign up for the 101 Things To Do email newsletter! I would like toknow where to look. With all the beauty of nature~, Hi there, thanks for the comment. Hypoallergenic 14K gold ear wire. Passion-4-Fashion Hono Ohala Place, Kapaa . 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.) English translations of these names, used when describing a lei to someone who is not a speaker of Hawaiian, may also vary and include a variety of colorful descriptions such as butterscotch and hot pink.. 24", Hawaiian Lei made of precious gem quality shells carefully collected on the Island of Ni`ihau, .. $500.00. Most of us refrain from buying books as souvenirs unless the person is a bookworm. Some songs feature the voice of the late, great Israel IZ Kamakawiwaole. info@niihauheritage.org, All Rights Reserved Copyright 2020 Many sellers on Etsy offer personalized, made-to-order items. 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. Original Price $299.99 (SD1). The wedding leis of Niihau are often made with "laiki" or "rice" shells. A few other terms includekahakaha(striped),nikiniki(spotted),puupuu(bumpy), and evenwaha ulaula(red mouth). Inquire for wholesale pricing. 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. Each piece of Ni'ihau jewelry we carry is in compliance with all laws protecting Ni'ihau shells in Hawaii. Last I checked, multi-strand chokers were going for at least $100/strand, but that may be outdated. This will differ depending on what options are available for the item. Ni'ihau shell leimaking is a traditional native Hawaiian art form that produces a highly-treasured form of jewelry. The island of Ni'ihau lies 17 mile off the west coast of Kauai. They are lovely and much less expensive than the real thing, but just be aware of what they are and what they aren't. Sold with earrings as a set or individually is a single strand pikake stitch lei comprised of medium grey Uli Uli shells. Happy shelling! Niihau ( Hawaiian: [niihw] ), anglicized as Niihau ( / ni ( i) ha / NEE- (ee-)how ), is the westernmost main and seventh largest inhabited island in Hawaii. 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. Kahelelani are the tiniest and most prized of the shells used to create Hawaiian shell leis. Find your treasure or have one made for you. 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. Certifiable Ni'ihau, Made on Kauai. 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. Using a combination of beautiful Ni'ihau shells and Grade A Tahitian pearls, this longer lei is definitely a showstopper. Puana Hou Me Ke Aloha by the Mkaha Sons of Niihau is full of traditional Hawaiian tunes. In fact, the Hawaiian language is spoken almost . It . If we were to buy again I'm not sure where we would look first. Absolutely! This is an excellent start, I appreciate your help. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. We bought my wife's lei at least a dozen years ago at the Lawai Hawaiian Trading Post. Ni'ihau Shell Heirlooms. Understandably, the rare shells are highly valued works of art both on display and for . I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. (sunrise shells are sold for quite a bit) . Mine was handed down to me, so I can't help much eithersorry! The island has mysteriously been "protected" from outsiders since the 1800s. Niihau Shell Leis is another exciting book you may bring home with you. This includes both online and at gift shops across Hawaii. I am trying to think what "bad" could be. Try using a different browser or disabling ad blockers. Remembering you arent in Hawaii anymore as soon as you wake, isnt exactly appealing. Read. 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. pzp--that's encouraging, as I doubt I could really afford the thousands range! 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! Purchased by a wealthy Scottish widow in 1864, the family-owned island of Niihau is committed to preserving its natural and cultural history perhaps at a dangerous cost. I had "rat-holed" birthday and Christmas money for a year or so, and had nice sum to spend, but NOTHING like $5000. Can be sold individually or with earrings. It has remained popular and is a cornerstone of almost every Niihau collection. 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. If you want to learn about Niihaus history, Niihau: The Last Hawaiian Island by Ruth M. Tabrah is a great way to start. Although it is not a Ni'ihau tradition to use them as pendants, it became very popular on Kauai starting in the 1970's. 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. We enjoy working with both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors. Ha'aheo, Hawaiian Crafts. 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. In the gaps between the shells, Ive been gifted with more than a few big cowrie shells among others. The necklaces can sell for an average of $125 to $25,000, and state law protects the Niihau label. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service, Emperors Emporium has the largest selection of island-inspired jewelry, clothing and Red Dirt shirts, gifts. SECTION 3. From handmade pieces to vintage treasures ready to be loved again, Etsy is the global marketplace for unique and creative goods. Lava Lava Cafe on the beach. this style is inspired by the treasures of the ocean and how well they work together. You can also find online shops to purchase them. $67.50, $90.00 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. We did receive a letter of authenticity, but it has long since been lost. 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. I'm also asking on the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? These earrings will be a limited stock, so get yours today. Precious Diamond 808 Detailing Anahola 96703 . If you browse through my site, you will see some excellent examples of more traditional styles as well as some of the more modern Kauai ones. It's our 25th wedding anniversary gift and I could not be more excited! Ni'ihau shell jewelry is one of the most Hawaiian art forms represented in Maui Hands. Start here. Because these shells have a variety of colors and markings, Niihau artisans use descriptive terms to differentiate them. Now YOU can visit Niihau, the Hawaiian "Forbidden Island" - where "time has stood still". This is the beach right in front of Alamoo road, thats the dirt track road which is just north of the Hanalei Colony Resort. What I'm seeking is an actual person or two who've purchased from someone on Kauai if it was a positive experience. They are also the most difficult to collect in usable quantities. Just the lei is $800 but earrings and bracelet be sold in addition as a full set for $1200. However, I find that when I fall in love with an item, it's always the most expensive in the case! Hi Southerngirl: I was in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? While many of the items on Etsy are handmade, youll also find craft supplies, digital items, and more. 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. Niihau is one of the most untouched of all the inhabited Hawaiian islands. Our options for clasps are boundless and our collection of gem quality cowry are fabulous. You can dress long in the flapper fashion, short as a choker, or as a waistband beach accessory. The average size of Kahelelani shells will . This piece is finished with a traditional gem grade single cowry clasp. 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. (Also, I did update your comment for you! 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. As each item made with pupu o Niihau is unique, you may not find many choices but you will certainly find beautiful items across a range of prices. :-). This piece can be worn several ways. 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. Is it legal to collect shells in Hawaii? Enjoy your search for the perfect one! However, books about the Forbidden Island are some of the best Niihau souvenirs. What more could you ask! Inquire to have photos sent to you of most current inventory since we often have incredible lei that are not yet posted online. 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. Made of precious pupu o Niihau shells, no lei is the same, showing the versatile craft of each Hawaiaan Leimaker. It's estimated that around 150 Native Hawaiians inhabit Niihau today. 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. 6-night multi-island adventures, starting from $1,239. It is a bottlebrush- blossom. This piece is 24" and is one of the most treasured favorites in our collection. Length and clasp can be adjustable. I did buy the gorgeous book Totally Hawaiian has on Niihau shell lei, which I highly recommend. 14K strong magnetic clasp for easy removal and safe wear. . The island was purchased almost 125 years ago by the Robinson family, who also own a large portion of Kauai. The color and size matching, plus the graduated thickness of the lei is really superb. I would rec Na Mea on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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! mammaI checked and I can pull the photos up. 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. Original Price $69.00 People get around on horseback, cook on kerosene stoves, and use outhouses. Its easy to find pictures of Queen Kapiolani wearing beautiful multi-strand lei as jewelry. It's known as "The Forbidden Island" in Hawaii, and the nickname isn't an exaggeration. Have any questions about where to buy Niihau shell leis or other souvenirs from Hawaiis Forbidden Island? Ever since I learned about Niihau on my last trip to Hawaii, Ive been eager to plan a trip to this remote island. 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. a great shell beach on Kauai! Can you check the link for me? We happily supply curated items to galleries with educational materials. Item# 18D01LK0085. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. Price tag: $20,000. 3864 Iona Road, (808) 634-0101, blu-umi.com 8. 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. Absolutely stunning Niihau shells! 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. I know this isn't bargain hunting, but I also wonder if Oahu might have a bigger mark-up on them (you know, big city prices!). Aloha. 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. Please check your email for a link to verify your email address. These earrings will not be duplicated in the future. Big Island, Kauai & Maui 6-night multi-island adventure, from $1,459. It has just over 100 year-round residents, and they live completely off the grid in a self-sustaining ecosystem. Original Price $1,800.00 Any pieces shown here for sale may be slightly different and can be customized to your specifications. With large 7-10mm A grade Tahitian pearls this represents a certifiable Niihau shell lei with the fashionable compliment of pearls. Palazzo Pant & Kimono Set - Tattoo in Royal & Black Lotus & Lime $121.95. It came with a certificate of authenticity and the name of the artisan that created it. 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). New statutory material is underscored. There are four species of Ni'ihau shells, or Pupu 'O Ni'ihau. The Kahelelani is also the most colorful shell used in Niihau and Kauaian shell leis. Original Price $90.00 This is a sample of the lei varieties that we create and curate as heirlooms. Here are the official colors and flowers of Hawaiian islands from the bottom to the top, Hawaii to Ni'ihau. I so wanted a necklace but couldn't afford it :( I did end up getting some earrings. Niihau, Hawaiian Ni'ihau, volcanic island, Kauai county, Hawaii, U.S. Niihau lies 17 miles (27 km) southwest of Kauai island. As she said best shell beach on the island. Decorated by Leilehua Yuen. Although, Poleho can be picked on Ni'ihau, our Poleho shells are. 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. Those prices. Inquire to choose your very own sunrise shell for this design. The author has first-hand experience (she visited the island twice!) Located 17 miles off the west coast of Kauai lies the island of Ni'ihau, better known as The Forbidden Isle. Finished with a 14K hook and eye clasp and granulated cowry, this is a spectacularly traditional lei. 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. Earwires are 14K French Hooks. Some of the kinds of shells you'll find. Well it may be a trek to get there even in your 4 x 4.. but its worth it. For generations, the people of Niihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. Original Price $125.00 A private island with a population of mostly pure Native Hawaiian descent, Ni'ihau has no rivers running into the ocean. 2. Sometimes "quality" is in the eye of the beholder so buy what you love! While some shells and shell colors are more common and easy to find, there are other varieties that are extremely rare and a . Pikake stitch graduates to long double Mauna Loa strands of high luster. Its on the best shell beaches on Kauai. But it's not exactly simple. With 14K strong magnet clasp it attaches to bracelet to wear long, or can be worn as 3 pieces. mamma, you can get away with spending MUCH less than a couple of grand. Find modern apparel, prints by local artists and jewelry made from hard-to-find Ni'ihau and sunrise shells. I will email the photos to you if you don't mind publishing your email address here. Indeed it is. Both bracelet 7" and necklace 19" can be combined to create a longer 26" lei for versatile wear. Still want to check it out! Nice to know in not the ink hone with that bad habit! I talked with her for a bit - very interesting. Do you mind if I ask how much the Nihau leis cost? A lot depends on the shells, the pattern and how skilled the maker was. Solid 14K finish with magnetic attachment for a safe and easy to operate clasp. It is finished with granulated cowries and a n 18k clasp. Kauai Crystal Sanctuary Anahola 96703 . Dont see this option? The art of lei-making is unique to Niihaus culture and has been alive since before the arrival of European settlers. Thats a business and I understand people need to feed their families but it takes the magic out of it. Ni'ihau Helicopters Office Drive to Port Allen Airport Finished in 14K with 14K spacers. They are found in greatest numbers on Ni'ihau and Kauai, although isolated populations occur on all of the Hawaiian Islands. (10% off), Sale Price $44.10 There may be variations, however, in the names that other lei makers commonly use. At Ali'i Kauai Tours and Charters, we offer one better: A two-for-one air experience. Each lei can take up to six months to complete. (I'm looking at this purchase as I'd do a diamond, a little research goes a long way!). and just poking holes in these tiny shells and stringing them up is soooo labor-intensive! This bracelet is my favorite accessory to wear and a best seller for budding enthusiasts. These retail for between $350-$600 in shops. My blog posts likely contain affiliate links, including for the Amazon Associates program.If you click, book, or buy from one of these links, I may earn a commission. We have many types of earrings, also silver hooks available at reduced cost. 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. 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. Original Price $49.00 They come in a wide range of colors. Apparently there used to be a dump there many years ago and this is where the glass came from. A Sunrise Shell on Kauai looks like a Sunrise.a half moon of yellows and oranges and reds with the shape above. [1] Kahelelani came from the royal Kaulamakaula line ("the red bloodline"). They arent stones, of course, but TINY SHELLS that are rare and precious. Kapono Ni`ihau Shell Lei 2. Those partners may have their own information theyve collected about you. Though the nickname stuck, luckily visiting the island is no longer forbidden. Over 80% by count Niihau shells, this piece is a high fashion statement. Learn more. Tours begin from Koloa, Kauai, and take participants across the often-rough Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua. Big wave beach Lumahai can yield some amazing shells.. just be careful in the water. The land was purchased in 1864 from King Kamehameha V and is in many ways a time capsule of life in early Hawaii. Yes! It is certifiable with 85% Niihau Shells and features a sunrise shell Centerpiece and sterling silver adjustable length clasp. I would like toknow where to look. These are kahelelani. Finding a sunrise shell that way is just money. The 1920's explosion in large pearl lariats was based on shell lei worn by Queens of Hawaii while visiting and hosting diplomats. Shhhh. The tiny shells wash up already vacant from the snails that they once housed. Since each sunrise shell pair has a red side and a yellow, we do our best to match a gorgeous color palette together regardless of the color you choose High Quality pure Niihau Shell Lei.