Aloha and welcome, everyone. I’m so happy you’re here. Whether this is your first time visiting or you’ve been following my journey, thank you for being part of my little world of Hawaiian shell jewelry.

Kahelelani shells are the smallest shells used to create authentic Niʻihau shell jewelry (ニイハウ シェル ジュエリー). If you are new and would like to learn What Kahelelani shells are, you can start with my beginner-friendly blog that explains their history, meaning, and why they are treasured in Niʻihau jewelry.
You can also visit my shell information section to read more about Momi, Laiki, and other shells used in Hawaiian and Niʻihau jewelry.

➡️In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most familiar Kahelelani shell colors: Keʻokeʻo (natural white), Mākuʻe (brown), ʻUlaʻula (burgundy red), ʻŌmaʻomaʻo (green), and ʻEleʻele (black).

Keʻokeʻo — Natural White

Keʻokeʻo is often called “white,” but it’s usually a soft, creamy ivory with a gentle, natural warmth. Many shells have a subtle shine or faint pink bands that give them a beautiful glow when strung together. They are the most common Kahelelani shells, but they never lose their charm.

For beginners who are still learning about shell sizes, colors, and styles, like Pikake styles the Hawaiian names can feel confusing at first. Many names don’t describe the shells exactly as they look — instead, they come from meanings found in Hawaiian culture, often connected to nature or something considered precious.

A good example is Momi, which means “pearl.” Momi shells don’t look like pearls, but the name reflects their value and beauty, not their shape. In the same way, some Kahelelani color or style names, like Mauna Loa (herringbone style), come from natural elements or imagery that carry a deeper meaning rather than a literal description.

   

In the photos above ⬆️, you’ll notice some shells that look almost white — but not a bright, stark white. Instead, they carry a soft ivory-white tone, sometimes with gentle freckles of pink or red. This variation is rarer, and it feels extra special when you find them. They add a quiet beauty that stands out even more when mixed into designs ⤵️ like Poepoe earrings or Manua loa style with deeper colors.

   

For me, Keʻokeʻo represents purity and peace, a reminder of how even the simplest shade can hold layers of natural beauty in Niʻihau’s tiniest treasures.

Mākuʻe — Brown

Brown Kahelelani shells, called Mākuʻe, carry a beauty all their own. They range from warm tans to deep chestnut and chocolate tones, usually appearing smooth and solid in color. Unlike other Kahelelani shades, they rarely show stripes or bands. Most of the time, they’re even and earthy, though now and then a shell may fade slightly from the sun.

   

Their richness often reminds me of Hawaiʻi’s polished koa wood — warm, grounding, and timeless. Instead of the bright sparkle seen in pinks or whites, Mākuʻe shells have a subtle earthy glow, like something slowly shaped by the sea and sand.

   

In jewelry, Mākuʻe adds balance and depth. On its own, it creates understated elegance. When combined with lighter colors such as Keʻokeʻo or brighter tones like ʻUlaʻula and Lenalena Momi shell bracelet, it anchors the design with stability — much like koa wood anchoring a piece of Hawaiian art.

If you would like to purchase the similar style of earrings 2675 featured in the photo, please click here. These earrings make a thoughtful Hawaiian gift and a meaningful addition to any collection.

ʻUlaʻula — Burgundy Red

If Keʻokeʻo feels soft and Mākuʻe feels grounded, then ʻUlaʻula is the bold, passionate heart of Kahelelani colors ❤️.

ʻUlaʻula shells are smooth, rich, and full of luster — in fact, from my years of experience, they are the brightest and shiniest of all Kahelelani shells. They range from deep wine to burgundy reds, glowing like tiny polished gemstones.

   

Because of their high shine, they’re also the most challenging to work with. Each shell must be carefully checked for quality before I poke the hole. Their round, slippery surface makes it tricky for the needle to find its way through. But those careful moments are worth it — every ʻUlaʻula shell carries a brilliance that feels alive.

   

In jewelry, ʻUlaʻula creates unforgettable beauty. On its own, it brings boldness and strength. When paired with softer tones like Keʻokeʻo or ʻĀkala Pua (pink flower), it creates striking contrast. With Lenalena (yellow), it glows with warmth and fire.

For me, ʻUlaʻula represents passion and bold beauty. In the world of Niʻihau jewelry, it’s the shade that speaks the loudest — strong, radiant, and unforgettable.

✨ If you would like to place a custom order and want to learn more about how the process works, please click ➡️ to read my Custom Orders blog. A custom piece is a special gift of Hawaiian culture, created with shells from Niʻihau or Kauaʻi and made especially for you.

ʻŌmaʻomaʻo — Green

The green Kahelelani shells, known as ʻŌmaʻomaʻo, are among the most subtle yet captivating. In the Niʻihau shell book, they are described as light brown, striated, with a tint of green — a shade that usually reveals itself only when several shells are strung together in a lei.

From my own experience, I’ve seen many variations. Some shells are a deep, mossy green, others are softer, and sometimes a shell looks almost Keʻokeʻo but with the faintest green tint. Most of the time, they don’t have the bright shine of Keʻokeʻo or ʻUlaʻula. Instead, they have a matte finish, giving jewelry a completely different, more earthy and natural look.

   

When blended into an ombre design, the greens fade gently into lighter shells and finally into Keʻokeʻo, creating a soft transition that feels organic and balanced. On their own, they carry quiet depth; in jewelry, they bring calm and harmony, like the shaded valleys of Hawaiʻi.

   

For me, ʻŌmaʻomaʻo represents subtle elegance and hidden beauty. It may not demand attention, but when you take the time to look closely, you’ll see a color that feels alive — a gentle reminder of Hawaiʻi’s forests, valleys, and the quiet power of nature.

✨The earrings 2636 featured in the photo are also available to shop in my store here. And if you’re creating your own Niʻihau shell jewelry and would love to work with these beautiful green Kahelelani shells, you can click here to explore them.

ʻEleʻele — Black

Kahelelani ʻEleʻele shells stand out because of their deep, glossy finish. Unlike many other Kahelelani shells that carry stripes, spots, or lighter tones, these are smooth, uniform, and rich in color. Their surface almost looks polished, giving them a sleek, bold appearance, while the creamy white opening inside adds just a touch of contrast ✨.

   

What makes them even more special is how rare they are. True black Kahelelani are not easy to come by — they’re considered one of the rarest colors, right alongside the highly sought-after hot pink. Because of this rarity, whenever they’re found, they’re treasured and often reserved for very special jewelry pieces.

For me, ʻEleʻele represents strength and rarity. In jewelry, it creates drama and contrast, making softer tones pop even more. It’s a color that speaks of mystery and depth — a striking reminder that even the tiniest shells can hold extraordinary beauty.

✨ This is just the beginning. In Part 2, I’ll be exploring the many shades of pink Kahelelani shells (ʻĀkala Pua and beyond) — how their colors form, how they shine differently, and why they bring such softness and romance to authentic Niʻihau jewelry.

⚓ If you’d like a little guidance on choosing Niʻihau shell jewelry as a gift, here are a few helpful pages you may enjoy:

• Buyer’s Guide
• Niʻihau Shell Jewelry Gift Guide
• Learn behide the scene Double-Double Pikake Earrings — When Both Sides Turn Out Completely Different
• Customer Testimonials

And if you ever have any questions or need a bit more help, please feel free to contact me here. I’m always happy to assist and guide you on your journey with Niʻihau shells.