The pearlized pink rose petal beads are mixed with soft pink seed beads and golden pink lentil beads for a rich and distinctive look in the 11: focal section. The rose petal beads all loosely arranged on this beautiful necklace lei at 22'. This design truly pops out as an art piece so expect to receive many compliments as it will truly start a conversation at any event you attend.
This unique glass beaded braid, available exclusively at Akalei Designs, was inspired by the beautiful floral Haku (also known as Po’o) Lei traditionally worn around the head. Akalei is Hawaiian for "bead reflections" which describes this unique necklace lei design style handcrafted only here on Maui. We reinterpret traditional Hawaiian Lei using a vast assortment of glass and natural beads, Japanese silk and synthetic fibers, and a wide variety of braiding techniques and inspirations from across the globe.
The weaving of beads requires many hours of braiding on a Japanese wooden stand called a “Marudai”. These 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. Due to the durability of the glass beads this necklace will last for years. You can also mix and match with different lengths of similar Lei or try the Forbidden Island inspired necklaces in that collection (see sample photo in this item).
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.
