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Continue ShoppingWe sell our products on-line and in-person with the Lahaina Arts Society. In August we are showing on the 29th at the Cannery Mall in Lahaina (10am to 3pm). We will be away teaching for AKS Sept 18 - 29th. In addition we are selling with Hawaiian Council at https://nameahawaii.com/collections/necklaces (We also book in-person appointments at the Kihei Studio). In Sept 2026 we will be away teaching for the American Kumihimo Society (18th to 28th 2026). Classes focus on confident beginners and emphasize the blending of Japanese tradition with island inspired Hawaiian necklace lei.
We reimagine traditional Hawaiian Lei to create "Aloha Inspired Forever Lei." Our designs merge an ancient Japanese braiding technique of kumihimo with the beauty of island colors and textures. We showcase our jewelry with the Lahaina Arts Society on Maui's West Side at the Cannery Mall .Check schedules on our website. All of our jewelry is handcrafted exclusively on Maui..
Japanese Metallic Ancient Gold Fiber Necklace- 25" (Zig Zag )
This extraordinary necklace was woven using Ancient Gold Toned Metallic Fibers imported from Japan. This unique pattern was first invented by Makiko Tada (Sensei) or my Hawaiian "Kumu of Kumihimo." Her unique designs are renowned across the world as she invents new braids daily. I made this stunning necklace using the ancient Marudai braiding stand (see photo below) All together there are hundreds of strands that are woven into this Art Jewelry piece, leaving it luxurious yet flexible. The braid's zig zag effect allows it to be worn without being itchy and looks amazing with a high neckline or plunging neckline. An extra strong gold toned acrylic magnet allows you to wear with no worry of it falling off. It measures 25“ yet is amazingly light weight.
Akalei is the Hawaiian word for "bead reflections" which truly describes our unique beaded designs, but these woven fiber styles are very popular internationally. We specialize in designing a wide range of modern yet familiar Hawaiian lei beaded and fiber. Please send an email to info@akaleidesigns.com.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that creates beautiful and strong interlaced cords. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Japanese samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are designed as belts (obijime) used 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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