Creation & Process

Having trouble seeing the blogs? Just click ⬇️ “Expand” ⬇️ to open the full list of posts in this category. Each article shares more behind-the-scenes moments, creative processes, challenges, and updates from my Niʻihau shell jewelry journey.

Aloha and welcome everyone,

This section focuses more on the creative side of my work, including behind-the-scenes moments, shell preparation, sorting, design ideas, custom orders, photography, and the many little details that go into creating my Niʻihau shell jewelry designs. Some blogs share new creations and updates, while others talk more about the challenges, inspiration, and thought process behind certain pieces.

Throughout these blogs, I also share some of the lessons, techniques, and experiences I have learned over the years while working closely with Niʻihau shells. Whether you are simply curious about the process, enjoy Hawaiian shell jewelry, or are learning to create your own pieces, I hope these stories help give you a deeper appreciation for the art and time behind each creation.

To begin your learning journey, start with:

• Behind the Scenes — Tiny Kahelelani Shells & Modern Minimalist Designs
• Can Size 10 Kahelelani Shells Be Used to Create Niʻihau Kipona Style?
• Behind the Scenes — My Process of Creating Pikake Style Niʻihau Earrings
• Behind the Scenes — Creating My Hawaiian Pineapple Earrings with Niʻihau Shells
• Minimalist Jewelry with Hawaiian Seashells — Timeless Island Elegance
• Behind the Scenes — How Important Is Sorting Quality Niʻihau Shells Really?
• New Heleconia Style Earrings After a Long Vacation Break
• Behind the Scenes — Custom Order Niʻihau Shell Kipona Style Earrings
• Behind the Scenes — New Niʻihau Kipona Style Earrings
• The Hidden Physical Side of Niʻihau Shell Preparation
• Vacation Creations — A New Update on My Niʻihau Shell Earring Designs
• Behind the Scenes: Sorting Momi Shells for My Heleconia Style Earrings
• Behind the Scenes: A Timeless Pikake Design — 2026 Update
• Sorting Momi Shells for New Pikake Earrings
• The Work Behind My 3" Momi Pikake Earrings
• Sorting Momi Shells for a New Pikake Design
• Blog 27: Hawaiian Shell Jewelry Photo Time
• Blog 25: Creating Lei 2007: Double-Double Kipona (#2007)
• Blog 24: Double-Double Pīkake Earrings — When the Rhythm Changed the Pattern
• Blog 23: Creating Lei 2005
• The Making of a Kahelelani Poepoe Lei (#2001)
• Creating a Kahelelani Two-Strand Poepoe (#2000)