Iolani Lei

Elegant and simple, bold yet subtle, this graceful neckpiece could be seen adorning a beautiful Hawaiian princess. Pristine, iridescent mother of pearl beads surround the neck symmetrically culminating in a beautiful "liquid" golden globe. The opposite ends of the necklace feature exotic, handmade golden discs which serve to provide a balance between the two contrasting materials of shell and gold. This classically elegant choker style necklace is an original piece of handcrafted artisan jewelry.

These classic shell beads are called mother of pearls and are made in Taiwan from the pearl oyster which is found in the warm, tropical Asian seas. Mother of Pearl is the iridescent coating on the inside of the shells, also being the same substance that creates pearls. When a shell gets irritated, it coats itself with nacre (the same material as its lining) and after layers and layers form, a pearl is produced. That is why this lining, or nacre, is called the Mother of Pearl. The high luster and purity of this gemstone has made it a widely treasured material for jewelry for centuries, gaining special popularity in Europe in the 1850’s.

The magnificent golden globe consists of a terra cotta base that is kiln-fired with rough copper and then heavily coated with 24 karat gold. This bead is enchanting and mystical, having the unique appearance of molten gold. Dark and rich, the gold contrasts nicely with the light, pearlescent nature of the shell. These differences add to the harmony of the whole piece, being ultimately elegant in design.

Intricately detailed, the handmade discs at either end of the neckpiece are vermeil, or gilded sterling silver. Closing with a giant brass lobster clasp, Iolani Lei is adjustable from 14 to 17 inches using the attached brass chain.

Situated in the middle of downtown Honolulu, Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. It was originally built in 1882 by King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani, inspired in design by their European travels. The beautiful architecture is a fusion of European and Hawaiian styles, having castle like features as well as lanais and outdoor walkways. Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii, was imprisoned in the palace during the overthrow of her government, and it is said that you can still hear her pacing footsteps in the room where she was held captive. In 1959, Hawaii was annexed to the United States and the palace served as the capitol of the territory. Shortly after, restoration begun and Iolani Palace is now a museum dedicated to the royal heritage of the Hawaiian Islands.

This necklace is a fusion of island style and European nobility, so I named it after this magnificent and unique palace. You may also be interested in the matching bracelet of the same name.