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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..
Gray & Purple Imitation Silk & Metallic Fiber Necklace Lei & Hat Band - 21"
This extraordinary necklace was woven together using dark grey and purple Japanese silk fibers along with purple metallic fibers. Altogether there are hundreds of strands that comprise this piece, leaving it luxurious yet flexible. An extra strong silver toned magnet end allows you to wear with no worry of it falling off. It measures 23” yet is amazingly light weight so also is perfect as a hat band.
Akalei is Hawaiian for "bead reflections" or "string of multicolored glass beads", which describes this unique style only available here on Maui. We specialize in designing a wide range of modern yet familiar Hawaiian lei
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that results in 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 obijime (belts) that are worn with a kimono.
Customized orders are welcomed - these braids can be made using Japanese Silks and various small (4-6mm) size pearls or semi-precious stones. Please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
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