Category
Jewelry and Gemstones
Medium
Hawaiian shells
Distinguishing marks
62" 12 strand laiki wedding lei
Condition
Excellent
Date Period
late 1800" early 1900's`
Long Description
The wedding leis of Niihau are often made with "laiki" or "rice" shells. This yellow/white lei consists of ten strands or more and 18" or longerPricing for shell lei are determined by the colors and types of shells; style and quality of the stringing; and the length of the lei.The finest of the Ni‘ihau shell lei may sell for more than $10,000. Ni‘ihau shell lei are worm primarily by women. Leis are then traditionally joined by a cowrie shell which compliments it in color and size.
History
This necklace has been in my family since it was purchsaed by my great grandmother and it has been passed down to me and has never bee appaised
eBay Auction Link
Price Paid (If known)
unknown
For Sale?
No