Niihau is famous for its Niihau shells from which the island’s resident make leis, necklaces and bracelets. There are many retailers on Kauai, Oahu and Maui that sell authentic Niihau shell lei and jewelry, including the Bishop Museum and Honolulu Academy of Arts (on Oahu) and Waimea Canyon General Store (on Kauai). [1] Just 17 miles from the coastline of Kauai, Hawaii boasts a historic restricted area: the small, 70-square-mile island of Niihau, also known as the “Forbidden Island.” The island is actually a privately-owned preservation project that for 150 years has been largely successful, save for the constant threat of outside influence. Hawaii is not known for its shells, apart from tiny ones collected on Niihau (primarily) and Kauai for special (expensive) jewelry items. Some Niihau shell leis have been known to be valued for up to $20,000. Think of Hawaii and the major players of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island will likely pop into mind. They don't have running water, and electricity is produced by the sun or … Niihau Shell Lei Detail :Note the varieties of colors and shapes. Worn by both men and women, the shell lei has become a symbol of Hawaiian elegance. Kahelelani (Niihau) Another bead for royalty, kahelelani’s were collected from the sand and strung to create thick lei necklaces for Hawaiian ali‘i. The company Niihau Aloha, owned by the residents of Ni’ihau specializes in making this type of unique jewelry. Ni‘ihau Shell Lei History Lei Pūpū History. With an official notary, Niihau shells can be evaluated based on its strain and style of stringing. This set is a feature of Ula Ula Burgundy shell accents in a strong base of Pikake strung Momi shells. For more information, visit the foundation’s website at www.niihauheritage.org/niihau_shells.htm. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. 20.5" Kahelelani & Tahitian pearl shell necklace #841. Only the most skilled hands know the intricacy required to weave Hawaii’s most precious shells into uniquely Hawaiian jewelry. Prohibits sale of seashell items w/description or label using term "Ni‛ihau" or "Niihau" unless item contains 100% Niihau shells and is made entirely in Hawaii. Trophy costs apply for the Eland and the Auodad, $3700 and 2700 respectively, but the agency will skin, pack, and transport your trophy for you. The shells are also strung with intricate patterns and clusters, making each design a work of art. iː ˌ h aʊ / NEE-how, NEE-ee-how) is the westernmost main and seventh largest inhabited island in Hawaii.It is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) southwest of Kauaʻi across the Kaulakahi Channel.Its area is 69.5 square miles (180 km 2). But what makes them so special? Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Niihau is a Hawaiian Island deeply shrouded in mystery. The population of the species has grown over the years, up to about 35 seals. Now, however, there are a couple options available if you want to visit this secluded Hawaiian island. The casual beachcomber’s guide to collecting seashells in Hawaii Written by Charles on November 27, 2017 in Blog.. Seashells are some of Hawaii’s most beautiful and curious souvenirs that you can find in the most exotic locales (the coastline) at a price that can’t be beat (free). Maui Ocean Center is the only place on Maui to get Niihau shell jewelry. We've got it covered. The natives of the main village of Pu‘uwai spoke a dialect that was a variation of Hawaiian … Niihau Shell Leis by Rob Arita - Welcome to Aloha Kahelelani! wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. Whether you're looking forward to romantic dinners out, unique shopping experiences, surf lessons or snorkeling the reefs, call us today to start booking your vacation package! Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Diamonds and platinum may be a sign of luxury in the U.S. Mainland, but in Hawaii it’s Ni‘ihau shell jewelry. Rifle rentals are available for $120 (£84.62). I cannot describe each shell name or design used in Hawaiian--it is 5 single strands with each strand being 36 inches in length. How to Visit Niihau. 20 1/4 Niihau Momi & Tahitian pearls shell lei #842. 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. More commonly known as Niihau shells for the island in which they typically wash up, you can also find these teeny shells on Kauai, Molokai and Lanai. The shells are so tiny that it takes many, many hours to assemble into a piece of jewelry. Learn more... Niihau is known as Hawaii’s “forbidden island,” and with good reason: for years, no one was allowed to visit. Sadly, though, impostors have found their way into this respectable art form by selling replicas of the valued Niihau shell lei. This is a 4 strands shell lei. If someone else contacts you to tell you they can get you to Niihau, it's either illegal or a scam. Little is known about life on The Forbidden Isle, as few ever gain access to this largely uninhabited tropical locale. Contact them directly for information on class length and cost. They come in an amazing array of colors and can be woven into the most beautiful adornments. Little is known about life on the Forbidden Isle. You most likely won't meet any island natives on your tour—the residents prefer privacy. Niihau Burgundy Kipona Poe Poe set. A Niihau shell lei can cost up to $30,000 or more, depending upon its design, rarity and age. Exclusive excursions to the Hawaiian "Forbidden Island" of Niihau. Flying first class or taking a Hawaiian cruise? You can also take a safari tour, where you can hunt wild boar and sheep, Eland or Auodad. Today, you will see the shell lei making a comeback at events, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo and other cultural events. This article has been viewed 17,229 times. Allows labeling that indicates percentage of Niihau shell content if item contains at least 80% Niihau shells and is made entirely in State. Pink Kahelelani & orange Sunrise shells … This has, in turn, developed into a fine Hawaiian folk art that only very few artisans practice today. Photo from the Hawaii State Archives. Origin of the Ni‘ihau shell lei is lost in antiquity, but there is ample evidence of its existence when Captain James Cook first arrived in the Hawai‘i in 1778. Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. It was described and purchased as made of Niihau shells. In the event of inclement weather, the agency will work with you to see if rescheduling is an option or to get a refund. Ni'ihau also goes by the name, The Forbidden Island, because the island is privately owned. Ni'ihau is an island off the southwest coast of Kaua'i. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. If you’re planning to buy Niihau shell jewelry while in Hawaii, be sure that the seller can provide a certificate of authenticity; otherwise, it is most likely fake. Add To Cart. By using our site, you agree to our. If you don’t get through to the tourism agency the first time, keep trying. A half-day tour is $465 (£310.31) per person. % of people told us that this article helped them. This has, in turn, developed into a fine Hawaiian folk art that only very few artisans practice today. Did you know that a single Niihau shell lei can sell for as much as $30,000? Because most of Niihau is low and dry, the island is too arid to be used for cultivation. The highly prized pupu o Niihau (Niihau shells) can only be found on the shores of The Forbidden Island and require acute patience, as a single strand can take several years to complete.These natural ocean gems come in a variety of … Amid the current public health and economic crises, when the world is shifting dramatically and we are all learning and adapting to changes in daily life, people need wikiHow more than ever. Alternatively, if you have a hunting license in your state, you can fill out an exemption request at. I bought my wife 2 Niihau shell necklaces at the Bishop Museum long ago (70's) so I am confidant they are authentic.But at the time they came with no authenticity. Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. Add To Cart. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. In 2004 the Hawaii State Legislature passed the law that protects the integrity of the Ni’ihau shells and the skilled artisans dedicated to the art form – … A more welcome visitor to Niihau is the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Niihau shell leis are both beautiful and coveted. The sale of Niihau jewelry to visitors … Measures 23 inches. ... nonexistent except for a few jobs and artisan trades like selling Ni‘ihau jewelry–treasures made exclusively from shells plucked from the island’s pristine beaches. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. museum quality Niihau and Kauai Shell Necklaces. That’s right, a lei that costs as much as a brand-new car or even a downpayment on a house. Does anyone in the Islands know if there is a place she can take the 2 necklaces to have them appraised and authenticated. Kahelelani are the tiniest and most prized of the shells used to create Hawaiian shell leis. Niihau shells can be used to make earrings, bracelets and other types of jewelry, as well. Photo courtesy of the Ni’ihau Cultural Heritage Foundation. Feb 5, 2013 - Niihau Shell Lei | Hawaiian Luxury at its Best - Oahu Real Estate Blog | Luxury Oahu Homes - HomeShoppeHawaii.com Add To Cart. As a side note, not every piece of shell jewelry will be $30,000 but ranges from $300 and up. According to the Niihau Cultural Heritage Foundation’s website, the shell lei has been a part of Hawaii’s history for centuries. This lei created by using Momi & Kahelelani shells from the island of Niihau. 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. You can behave and dress as you normally would without worrying too much about culture differences. There are a few beaches on Hawaii's northern shores that provide a bounty of shells, but one of the best is Tunnels Beach, where it's said that the puka shell-necklace trend began back in … The Momi shells created into many designs with beautiful Hot pink, pink, black, green, burgundy, ice-cream, common, dark chocolate and orange Kahelelani shells added to highlighted this lei. Direct to you from the island of Niihau comes this beautiful Niihau Shell jewelry ranging in styles from casual to very dressy. They have … Beautiful hard to find Hot pink, pink, black, green, burgundy, gray, ice-cream and orange Kahelelani shells from both Niihau and Kauai island highlighted this beautiful lei. Prange, Gordon W (1962). Last Updated: July 21, 2020 Some Niihau shell leis have been known to be valued for up to $20,000. The water is also clear, and the rocky southern tip of the beach is the best place for shelling. While many of the dialects and traditions of Oahu, Maui and the other islands are lost in time, waiting to be rediscovered in a mele (song) or chant, Niihau’s isolation from the rest of the changing world played a huge role in why its customs are so well preserved and are still being practiced today. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Other Hawaiian Shell Jewelry. 'Niihau Zero: The Unlikely Drama of Hawaii's Forbidden Island Prior to, During, and After the Pearl Harbor Attack. $795.00. I have been the only owner. References. Ni’ihau shell lei was the first … Lei made from tiny, colorful shells carried by surf onto the beaches of the island of Niihau are among the most prized in the world.A master artisan may take years to craft a multi-strand Niihau shell lei like the ones pictured here, with much of that time spent combing beaches for the desired colors and sizes. Pilots provide a historical background of the island and guests are allowed to wander its secluded beaches, sunbathing, looking for shells, and gazing upon beloved monk seals. Today, there are about 70 permanent residents and the only work opportunities are fashioning jewelry out of Niihau shells or working at the island's school. Behave and dress as you normally would. With Hawaii Aloha Travel, planning your vacation to Hawaii is stress-free, fun, and rewarding. Measures 22 inches. Laiki Lenalena Shell Earrings Crafted by Makamae O Molokai Treasures from Molokai in Hawaii. Now, however, there are a couple options available if you want to visit this secluded Hawaiian island. To me, it is the most Hawaiian art object you can buy in Hawaii.” Baker hopes to get more exposure for the craft to benefit the artisans. Momi shells Unlike the other Hawaiian islands where flower lei are the norm, Ni'ihau focuses on shell lei because of its dry, arid climate . A full day of hunting costs $2,200 (£1375.14) per person. The predominantly native Hawaiian inhabitants herd sheep and cattle and gather honey, and they have made the island famous through the export of highly prized jewelry made of tiny shells … Merritt Island, Florida: JBJ Delta Charlie LC/Signum Ops. Set up a charter through the same agency that gives group tours. Even Hawaiian royalty cherished this fine art, according to the foundation. First off, they’re made with hundreds of unique shells gathered on remote beaches of the “Forbidden Isle.” The shells are so tiny that it takes many, many hours to assemble into a piece of jewelry. Niihau shell lei artisans are pretty amazing. Niihau shell leis. $185.00. Ha'aheo, Hawaiian Crafts We are a Hawaiian owned, local business that specializes in unique, hand-crafted products that are made in Hawaii.Located on the island of 'Oahu, we sale primarily at craft fairs, public events, and fundraising events.We currently specialize … To prevent shells from other Pacific islands being called Ni’ihau shells it took a campaign that led to the enactment of a law. Queen Emma of Hawai’i wearing strands of Ni’ihau shells. Invisible to […] Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 17,229 times. You most likely won't meet any island natives since the residents prefer privacy. $245.00. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. In 1864, Elizabeth Sinclair-Robinson, born in Scotland and a plantation owner in New Zealand, purchased the island of Ni‘ihau from King Kamehameha V and the Kingdom of Hawaii for $10,000.With this exchange, she promised to preserve the “kahiki” or native Hawaiian culture. Be persistent! The 72-square-mile Niihau is everything the major Hawaiian islands — Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and its neighbor Kauai — are not. It has 130 residents, give or take, and they live in the tiny town of Puuwai. Relaxing on a quiet Niihau beach . Ten to 12 seal pups are born on the island every year. In the event of inclement weather, the agency will work with you to try and reschedule. Niihau is a Hawaiian Island deeply shrouded in mystery. But besides the smaller islands of Molokai and Lanai, which together with Maui comprise Maui County, Hawaii is also home to Ni’ihau—the westernmost island in the archipelago and perhaps one of the most mysterious places on Earth.. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Visit-Niihau-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Visit-Niihau-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b7\/Visit-Niihau-Step-1.jpg\/aid9928015-v4-728px-Visit-Niihau-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"