Ni'ihau lei

human history

Ni'ihau lei. Shell necklace. This is a necklace made up of loose strands consisting of moni uliuli shells (a member of the Columbellidae family). Upon closer inspection, these small shells are off white and grey in colour with fine white specs and light brown markings. The tips of every single shell has been clipped off to thread string through. This style of necklace and technique is specific to Ni'ihau in Hawai'i. Loose ends feature in place of where a clasp or fastening would normally be fixed.

Last Update: 13 May 2025
Other Name

Shell necklace (English)

Place
Hawaii/United States of America
Accession Date

1924

Other Id

14548 (ethnology)

E50 (Edge-Partington)

Department

Pacific

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9 Images
Ni'ihau lei, 14548, E50, Photographed by Denise Baynham, digital, 14 Mar 2018, Cultural Permissions Apply
Ni'ihau lei, 14548, E50, Photographed by Denise Baynham, digital, 14 Mar 2018, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
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