Symbolism of Puka Shell Necklaces
Puka shell necklaces exemplify the laid-back spirit of the Hawaiian islands and surfing culture with their smooth, naturally polished appearance. Puka shells, however, have deeper meaning that contributes to their lasting popularity.
Natural Origins and Namesake
Puka shells are tiny spiral seashells that grow naturally in Hawaii’s waters. Leptothyra verruca is their scientific name, but “puka” means “hole” in Hawaiian. The spiraling shape of the shell has a central hole.
Hawaiians have been collecting these little shells on the beaches for ages to thread into lovely lei necklaces. The natural glossy polish of puka shells gives them a sleek, refined appeal as adornments.
Cultural Significance in Hawaii
Puka shell necklaces and lei have several traditional meanings in Hawaiian culture:
- As beloved gifts, they reflect love, friendship, joy, and blessings.
- It is thought to bring protection, luck, and “mana” (spiritual energy).
- Symbolizing the spiritual bond between land and water.
- Symbolizes oneness, spiritual growth, and natural beauty.
Wearing puka shell jewelry today honors strong Hawaiian cultural traditions.
The Puka Necklace in Surf Style
Puka shell necklaces became popular in surf culture outside of Hawaii in the 1960s and 1970s. The shells represented the laid-back lifestyle of riding waves and enjoying the water for surfers and beachgoers.
The jewelry was especially appealing to surfers because puka shells do not rust or fade in the sun and waves like metal. Durable, low-maintenance shell necklaces were ideal for the surfing style.
Modern Puka Jewelry Designs
While single or double strand puka necklaces remain popular, newer variants offer fresh twists:
- Puka chokers made of big shells or beads
- Puka anklets and bracelets
- When paired with other natural elements such as wood or seed pearls
- Necklaces with shell accents on leather cords
- Puka bib necklaces with a bold message
Keepin’ Your KoaLookin’ Kool
Whether you got natural or novelty pukas, these tips’ll keep ’em lookin’ fresh:
Stamped shells can chip easier, so gentle dunks in soapy water do the trick for these fellas.
Au natural pukas from the sea have more grit, so a soft brush after swims prepares ’em for next time.
String ’em on cord that won’t degrade over time in sun or salt. Leather or hemp every so often does good.
Store separately if you switch up your necklaces. Prevent scratchin’ between strands when not around your neck.
Conclusion
Puka shell necklaces highlight the timeless attraction of the sea, with origins in Hawaiian culture and classic surf flair. Puka shells are meaningful emblems of ocean enchantment and the joy of carefree island living due to their organic, laidback charm. Puka jewelry preserves that cherished sense of natural wonder, beauty, and spiritual power.
FAQs
The Puka Shell
It is said that the shells were thought to provide protection to sailors. Finding a Puka shell is also seen as good luck, with the more symmetrical the shell, the better your luck would be.
In their native Hawaii, puka shell necklaces traditionally bestow good luck, though, as GARAGE’s fashion director Gabriella Karefa-Johnson aptly said, “[l]ike most things wonderful and Hawaiian, once they hit the mainland, the shell’s intended power was probably stripped in the appropriation process.”
And because they go with nearly any outfit or occasion, they’re incredibly versatile; whether you’re going out for dinner or taking a day trip to the beach, puka shell necklaces will always be appropriate!
The puka shell necklace trend can be traced back to the 1970s, when surfers and beach bums began stringing the shells together to create simple, handmade jewelry. These necklaces quickly caught on and became a popular accessory for both men and women.
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