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Continue ShoppingEach of our designs are handcrafted with the braiding of glass beads. We have dozens of unique kumihimo structures that reimagine traditional Hawaiian Lei to create “Forever Lei.” We are thrilled to be selected to teach 11 unique classes during the Glass Craft & Bead Expo in Las Vegas April 15th - 19th 2026. Limited seats Questions & Registration. https://glasscraftexpo.com/registration/
Our Hawaiian Glass Beaded Lei are unique handcrafted designs made using a Japanese braiding technique of "Kumihimo." We gain inspiration from the 'āina surrounding us on Maui. Akalei reimagines traditional Hawaiian Lei using a blend of fibers, shells, glass beads and Lamp Work beads to create our handmade Forever Lei on a Marudai stand
Opaque Cream Magatama Glass Beaded Necklace (Smooth Finish) - 30"
These extra large beads almost appear to be seeds or nuts as they stand out as a design. We also call these dragon scale necklace lei yet this color is truly a joyful color. The opaque matte finish makes it appear to be a flower bud and it will certainly gain the attention when wearing it. Because we loaded each bead in the middle hole the entire finish is smooth - like what Dragon Scale's might actually like. Compare these to how the RANDOM appears in our sister braid. (SEE LINK HERE). Theses glass beads will last forever (with normal wear and tear of course) These are also one of the largest glass beads made by bead manufacturers in Japan. We weave over one-thousand Magatama beads in this necklace so no two are exactly alike. This statement necklace lei is finished with a gold toned acrylic magnet end cap that has a strong hold.
Our necklaces 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 necklace was made using hundreds of glass beads from around the world that are meticulously loaded onto multiple cords that are then woven together on a Japanese Marudai braiding stand (see photo).
Akalei Designs make great gifts for woman, girls, and men! Akalei is the Hawaiian word for "bead reflections" which captures this unique style only available on Maui. We specialize in designing a wide range of modern yet classic Hawaiian looking lei. For customized orders please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that creates beautiful and durable interlaced necklaces and bracelets. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are used for belts (obijime) on kimonos
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.
Randy
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