Keoni's Hawaiian Opihi Heart Necklace

Description

Size: 1 1/2" x 1 1/4"
The Opihi Shell Aloha, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Keoni and I was born and raised in Hawaii. I am now living in Virginia. I create one of a kind pendants and earrings from the Opihi shells. Some of my work is featured in Hawaii and Virginia. The beautiful and unique Opihi shells come from the cliffs of Molokai. Opihi are harvested by local Hawaiian people for the food inside the shell, which is considered a delicacy and served at authentic luaus. The picking of the shells is often precarious and dangerous work and must be done only when the waves are not pounding the cliffs during inclement weather. I am one of a few artist designer today that makes hearts from Opihi shells. I have taken the empty shells and removed the layers of crustacean that they are covered in, shaped them and, by taking away (rather than adding to), disclosed the beautiful creation within each piece. They are then coated with a special coating which brings out the natural colors within the shell. Although they appear to be very delicate, in their natural environment they are pounded by twenty foot waves as they cling to the cliffs on Molokai. Each piece is unique in its natural beauty, and like snowflakes, no two are ever alike. God creates the Opihi, and I am blessed to be able to work with them and showcase His handiwork. To be able to work with a part of this earths? nature is both a challenge and a thrill. Many hours of time go into the process of developing each piece and it is sometimes difficult to part with them. The reward, however, comes from the interest and compliments I receive from sharing with others the beautiful Hawaiian Opihi shell.
Comes in a 3 1/2 x 3 1/2 box and it will give you an idea how big they are. Also comes with a puka shell on the cord to adjust to your liking. Aloha, Keoni Makai (John) by the (Sea) Pronounced O P He