Last Updated on April 26, 2024 by Ryan
A Hawaiian jewelry gift or keepsake is a meaningful and stunning present for someone you love. Hawaiian jewelry emblems can make you feel like you’ve brought a piece of the island back with you. Almost all perceive the debt Hawaii owes us. Hawaii is recognized as one of the top vacation spots because it is a mythical realm of beauty—both in the natural world and its inhabitants. It is even more stunning when complemented by the lovely jewelry that people fashion from various marine resources.
In addition to rings, pendants, and bracelets, modern Hawaiian heirloom jewelry now includes earrings, ankle bracelets, and timepieces. Typical Hawaiian themes are used to embellish them.
Here are some of the 7 Hawaiian Jewelry Designs as follows
The design is among the most crucial considerations when buying a piece of Hawaiian jewelry. Additionally, specific trends and themes have emerged from recognizable island flowers over time.
Plumeria
The scented plumeria, sometimes referred to as the Hawaiian lei flower, is a member of the orchid family and is associated with Hawaii. It is frequently employed to make lovely and aromatic necklaces often presented as welcome presents to newcomers. All visitors to Hawaii are given one of these necklaces. Even though orchids have a minimal lifespan and would quickly deteriorate, you can have patterns carved out of shells, silver, or any other material.
Plumeria, one of the most recognizable flowers from the Islands, is frequently worn and placed behind the ear. However, its timeless shape makes it the ideal pendant or earring with a tropical theme.
Mother Of Pearl
In Hawaii, mother-of-pearl jewelry is trendy. With its shimmering hues and elegance, mother-of-pearl remains a popular mineral material for making exquisite jewelry and highlighting the wearer’s absolute femininity and gentleness. Mother-of-pearl is at the core of beliefs and faiths since it has long amazed the ancients that a living thing can shape such a rigid and flawless material. Typically, we locate early mother-of-pearl jewelry since it is thought that the first jewels were made by the belief to act as amulets.
Carved Fish Bones
Fish bones can also be engraved, refined, and made into jewelry like ivory tusks. Fishhooks and other typical island flora and fauna can be made from bones. Once a piece has been formed, it is highly polished before strung, occasionally with puka shells or coconut beads. The fish hook symbolism all that is wonderful in today’s culture and is worn as a talisman or amulet, promising its wearer success, strength, and good fortune. In the same way, the prehistoric Hawaiian fisherman provided food for their family and friends, which can also signify that you are a great provider.
Coral
The name “coral” conjures up thoughts of the tropics, swaying palm trees, a clear blue sea, and vibrant fish. Coral, though, is much more than that. Coral has been used for thousands of years to manufacture jewelry and is prized for its distinctive warm colors and satiny, smooth feel. Coral is just as attractive as any gemstone when made into lovely jewelry. With the exception of decorations made from coral or shark tooth, they are both beautiful and reasonably priced. In fact, despite being historically the second-largest manufacturer of coral decorations, many islanders no longer sell or make coral jewelry out of concern for harming the islands’ diverse nature.
Coral is not lustrous in its natural condition, but it has a shiny, smooth appearance after waxing and polishing. The polishing of the gemstone and the jeweler’s preference both affect the luster’s quality. People no longer make or sell coral jewelry because Hawaii’s thriving ecosystem supports three-quarters of its inhabitants.
Puka Shells
Hawaii is the only place where puka shells may be found naturally. The word puka, which means “hole” in Hawaiian, alludes to the hole that develops in the shells over time. The stringing of these shells for use as jewelry has been made quite simple by the naturally occurring perforations. The shells, so the story goes, were intended to protect seamen. Seeing a Puka shell is also seen as lucky; the more symmetrical the shell, the better your luck.
Cowry
Cowries, on the other hand, stand for luck and fortune. The cowries shell is thought to promote fertility and abundance. Even though cowries aren’t used as money anymore, they still have many symbolic meanings in daily life. Traditional Hawaiian jewelry can be made using cowries, once utilized as cash in some African countries. Cowry shells, made by snails, are prized for their glossy exteriors and assortment of colors. Only Hawaiian nobility was permitted to wear the Golden Cowries, an extremely rare kind.
Shark Tooth
The shark tooth necklace is regarded by many as a sign of power and defense. An old Hawaiian legend claims a shark tooth can shield you from a shark attack. This idea was inspired by the tale of a young Hawaiian man who fought a sea god. A shark tooth necklace is a classic piece of jewelry, particularly for people looking for authentic Hawaiian presents. According to Hawaiian mythology, aumakua typically takes the form of sharks or owls and is present to protect families, plants, animals, and humans. A shark tooth is a symbol of strength, but it also stands for tradition and honor.
The Final Thoughts
Hawaii is a wellspring of creativity, which has for a very long time inspired islanders to employ the remnants of nature to make pieces of jewelry that are distinctive and instantly identifiable throughout the world. There is a beautiful assortment of jewelry fashioned in the style of the islands, whether you choose less expensive items manufactured using traditional island techniques or good quality pieces set with valuable gemstones. These Hawaiian Jewelry Designs will complement any outfit you wear, so grab one and embrace the trend.
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Meet Kourtney, a fashion and beauty enthusiast who tells stories through style. To her, clothing is a language, and every accessory adds punctuation to her narrative. Kourtney explores vintage fashion markets on weekends, blending classic with contemporary to create a signature style that reflects her vibrant personality. Beyond aesthetics, she's a passionate advocate for body positivity and inclusivity in fashion, celebrating diversity to ensure everyone feels seen and embraced.
