Aloha:
We are temporarily relocating to Hana from our studio in Kihei . We will continue to fill orders yet might have a 1 day delay. Please use Code RETURN24 as a Thank You, and remember FREE SHIPPING for all orders over $80.
All of our Glass Beaded Necklace Lei are handcrafted & woven using a Japanese braiding technique called "Kumihimo" on a wooden stand (Marudai). Classes are starting soon with Hana Arts so stay tuned. New unique designs coming soon as we continue to expand into more traditional Hawaiian and Japanese themed designs.
Blending and weaving of glass beads is an artform the jewelry world has just begun to explore. Additionally the form of braiding in Japan of Kumihimo has recently adapted that ancient braiding technique to incorporate all styles of beads, gemstones, and pearls. Akalei Designs, based in Hawaii, has helped to expand these two jewelry worlds resulting in vibrant jewelry designs filled with colors that inspire all artists to achieve new heights in the use of color and light.
Each of the designs in this collection incorporate the use of contrast to give the desired effect in a beautiful spiral Kumihimo pattern. In the center of the spiral are lentil or rose petal glass beads from across the globe (Japan and Czech Republic), On the outer edge of this design is a variety of unique shaped beads - they include gecko beads, long drop beads, and rizo or rice beads. As this is the most recent design we continue to explore new and exciting ideas that reflect our amazing Hawaiian world.