Make a Jewel of a Find

In 1880, Queen Victoria gave Princess Liliu'okalani a solid gold bracelet engraved and enameled with the Princess' name. Hawaiian heirloom jewelry was born and remains extremely popular to this day. Other island favorites include Tahitian black pearls, absolutely striking in their simplicity, and Plumeria jewelry, delicate pieces designed from the island flower local women wear in their hair and collect to create leis.

Ni'ihau shell leis are native art at its finest. Prized by the ancient ali'i (royalty), the leis are made only on Ni'ihau, a private island off Kauai's west side. Regarded as one of the finest Polynesian art forms, these rare and expensive leis are heirlooms to be treasured forever and the only shell lei in the world that you can insure.

For generations, the people of Ni'ihau have been collecting, matching and stringing these tiny, lustrous shells. The art of making leis is passed from mother to daughter. Each lei can take up to six months to complete.

During Hawaii's monarchy period, European fashions were popular with the royal court. Yet, Hawaii's queens wore long, multiple strands of carefully matched shells to grace their gowns. The leis have retained their popularity over the years and the shells have been used to make matching earrings, bracelets and hatbands for men's lauhala hats. Women now wear short strands or wind the longer lengths several times around the neck in graduated lengths.

If Hawaii puts you in the mood to pop the question, go shopping at The Wedding Ring Shop in Ala Moana Center. Kane/wahine ring sets are the specialty, and quality is available in a wide price range. Engagement rings, pendants, bracelets and earrings are also displayed.

High-end jewelry stores are easy to find in Waikiki and the malls, but in spots off the beaten path you can find significant discounts on fine Hawaiian jewelry, Tahitian pearls and pink corals. Take some home and start a beautiful tradition of your own.