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Continue ShoppingAkalei Designs redefines kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern island inspired bead structures using an innovative approach to our style. Our "Kumihimo 2.0" represents the next evolution of braided artistry: advanced blending to create contemporary designs for shoppers (and students) seeking long lasting beauty and innovative designs. Discover jewelry that is affordable, timeless and boldly contemporary.
Akalei Designs redefines Kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern bead architecture and structures using innovative materials.Akalei Designs represents the next evolution of braided artistry: advanced bead engineering, and contemporary design for shoppers (and kumihimo students) who seek beauty and innovation.
Each piece is. handcrafted on Maui..
Lavender Lights Blended Edo Necklace - 26"
Lavender shimmers and shines in this lovely necklace. For an additional pop of color rainbow cranberry seed beads comprise the 10" focal section. Two Japanese braiding techniques are used to achieve this look. First - the ends woven one bead at a time for a tight spiral, and the center is woven beaded cords (called Continuous Beaded Braiding) to creates a hollow braid for a looser relaxed look. At the areas of change are two large hole beads for even more accent color. A silver toned acrylic magnetic end cap will keep this secure and comfortable around your neck.
This new design captures the essence of Aloha - and even better it is a perfect gift for a friend or loved one! As a beautiful glass beaded lei each necklace is handmade on Maui and involves meticulous attention to detail while braiding. The beaded necklace lei will endure forever, feel wonderful to wear and require little to almost no care by using a clean dry towel every few months to keep dust free and bright.
This beautiful hand-crafted style lei was made using hundreds of Japanese seed beads that are meticulously loaded onto multiple cords that are woven then together on a Japanese marudai braiding stand (see photo).
The necklace is created using an ancient Japanese braiding technique called Kumihimo, a Japanese word for “gathered threads". This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor for Japanese samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are designed as belts (obijime) that are worn as a belt with a kimono.
It is my goal to provide you with a long lasting, beautiful piece of jewelry that you will enjoy wearing for years to come. I take great care in the construction of my pieces to ensure just that. Please note: colors may slightly differ from their appearance on your display, as it depends on your monitor settings.
Please send me a message with questions or comments.
Thanks for stopping by!
Aloha Aku.
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