5 Strand Niihau Shell Lei, Kahelelani Laiki Shell Necklace, Classic Hawaii Shell Choker, Shells Hawaii, Rare Shell Necklace, Genuine Niihau - Etsy

Niihau Shell Lei: Momi & Kahelelani Shells, 14k Gold Filled, Hawaiian Wedding Necklace - Etsy

Rare Laiki Shell Lei: Kauai Laiki Shells, Granulate Cowrie Shell, Traditional Hawaiian Kahelelani Necklace, Rare Hawaiian Shell Necklace

Ever wonder what tools are used to poke Niʻihau shells like Kahelelani, Momi, or Laiki? 🐚 It’s one of the most delicate steps in creating Niʻihau shell jewelry (ニイハウシェル ジュエリー) — and also one of the most rewarding. Each tiny hole has to be made with patience and precision, so the shells can later line up beautifully in a lei or earring design. In this new blog post, I share the exact tools I use and a few tips I’ve learned from years of experience living and working beside these shells here in H