You Know Those Iconic Puka Shell Necklaces

You know those puka shell necklaces you always see people wearing at the beach? Those funky chunky shells strung together on a leather cord? Those puka shell necklaces are now totally iconic for the surfing scene. They just scream “beach bum vibes!”

Puka shells come from Hawaii originally. They were used to make leis and other jewelry for centuries by Native Hawaiians before becoming popular in surf culture in the 70s and 80s. Now they’re classic – everyone wants to rock a puka shell necklace during the summer to give off that laidback, beachy vibe.

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The puka necklace just says “surf’s up!” It represents days spent catching waves and chilling oceanside, feeling the saltwater and sun on your skin. So that’s the story behind the iconic puka shell necklace! Its simplicity and organic nature capture the free spirit of ocean culture. But what is the story and meaning behind these ubiquitous puka shell necklaces?

The Meaning and Symbolism of Puka Shells

Puka is the Hawaiian word for those little round shells you always see washed up on the beaches there. The waves tumble the shells around in the surf, smoothing and polishing them into these tiny, perfect circles.

Local Hawaiians have been collecting puka shells for ages and using them to make jewelry and decorations. If you’ve ever been to Hawaii, you’ve probably spotted the puka shells mixed in with the sand – the beaches are covered with millions of ’em! The most popular souvenir is a necklace strung with the little puka shells.

So next time you see those round shells used in jewelry or home decor, you’ll know they’re called “puka.” It’s a Hawaiian term for the abundant sea shells that get naturally polished to perfection by the motion of the ocean waves. In the Hawaiian language, puka means “hole”, referencing the small hole present in each small shell. Pukas come in white, brown, tan, grey and other earthy hues, varying in size from a pea to over an inch long.

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For centuries, puka shells have been incorporated into meaningful jewelry, leis, and decor by native Hawaiians. According to legend, a revered chief named Kahekili loved to adorn his hair and neck with puka shell leis gathered from shorelines. When Kahekili passed away, his people would string together pukas and toss them into the sea to return to their ocean home, honoring the chief while also showing respect for the life-giving waters. From then on, puka shells took on a symbolic meaning of life, longevity and respect for the natural world.

Puka Necklaces Embody Surf Culture

Puka shell necklaces grew in popularity along with the surf culture boom in the 1960s and 70s. The simple puka shell necklace embodied the carefree, beach lifestyle that this culture cherished. Surf shops began creating puka shell necklaces en masse to sell to tourists and surfers. The real shells were sourced from various beaches and strong cotton cording was used to string them together by hand.

Back in the day, puka shell necklaces were popular with both guys and gals. Wearing a puka necklace was like carrying the chill island lifestyle with you wherever you went. Just looking at the little shells would remind you of ocean waves crashing on the shore, the feel of the warm sand between your toes, and that total tropical vibe.

Lots of people would collect their own puka shells during beach trips to Hawaii or other islands. Then they’d take the shells home, string them up on a cord, and DIY their own unique puka necklace. No two necklaces ever came out exactly the same since the shells all had little natural imperfections. It was cool how each handmade puka necklace ended up with its own one-of-a-kind look and style.

The puka necklace let you channel those mellow island vibes wherever you wore it. Just a simple string of shells took you right back to the paradise of the islands.

Puka shell necklaces continue to be popular today for their laidback, beachy look. The shells also carry personal meaning, with each one hand selected and strung with purpose.

Modern Variations on the Classic Puka Necklace

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While the classic single strand puka necklace remains timeless, modern variations put a fresh spin on this iconic accessory. Two or three strand puka necklaces offer a fuller, dimensional look. Interspersing small and larger shells adds visual interest. For a dressier take, small beads can be woven between the shells, perfect for a beach wedding or island cocktail party.

Statement puka necklaces feature extra large shells for dramatic impact. Fewer oversized shells make them perfect for layering over simple tanks and dresses. The large pukas pair well with rugged elements like leather or wood beads for an on-trend boho look. Adjustable length options allow you to customize the perfect fit.

Asymmetrical and freeform shaped puka necklaces have an artistic vibe. Sculptural curves give the necklaces movement.

For an understated look, delicate mini puka shells are strung together on slim cotton cord. Petite and close together, they lay smoothly for effortless everyday style. Dainty puka necklaces add organic texture without overpowering your outfit.

Designers also mix puka shells with complementary natural materials like wood, seeds or gemstones. Combining the smooth shells with wooden beads or magnesite crystals creates depth and interest. Puka shells paired with turquoise, jade or tiger eye stones have a trendy bohemian look.

Quality Craftsmanship from Dongguan Azone Jewelry

At Dongguan Azone Jewelry, our innovative designers are always coming up with fresh new takes on the iconic puka shell necklace. Our skilled artisans meticulously handcraft each puka necklace to ensure quality and beauty.

Keep it simple with classic small shells on adjustable cotton cord. Make a bold statement with a dramatic large shell bib or multi-strand design. Layer different sized pukas for a trendy stacked look. With quality craftsmanship from Azone Jewelry, our puka necklaces will become your new go-to accessories that you’ll reach for again and again. Let these natural shell beauties channel carefree tropical vibes wherever you go.

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