Creation & Process

Having trouble seeing the blogs?
Just click ⬇️ “Expand” ⬇️ to open the full list of posts in this category. Each article is filled with stories, tips, and inspiration from my Niʻihau shell jewelry journey.

This space offers a closer look at the real process behind creating Niʻihau shell jewelry — from sorting shells and testing designs to fixing small details and learning through each challenge. Much of what’s shared here comes from years of hands-on experience as a self-taught artist, and from the care and intention behind every piece I create.

I hope these stories help you feel more connected to the art, patience, and beauty behind each Niʻihau shell — and to the quiet aloha that guides every creation.

With aloha,
Janjira — ShellsHawaii.com

To begin your learning journey, start with:

• The Work Behind My 3 Momi Pikake Earrings
• Sorting Momi Shells for a New Pikake Design
• Hawaiian Shell Jewelry Photo Time
• Creating Lei 2007: Double-Double Kipona (#2007)
• Double-Double Pīkake Earrings – When Both Sides Turn Out Completely Different
• Creating Lei 2005
• The Making of a Kahelelani Poepoe Lei (#2001)
• Creating a Kahelelani Two-Strand Poepoe (#2000)