How Much is Hawaiian Jewelry?
Hawaiian jewelry is not only beautiful but also deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition, making each piece truly special. Due to the unique craftsmanship, historical significance, and high-quality materials often used, the cost of Hawaiian jewelry can vary widely. However, prices generally depend on the type of metal used and the complexity of the designs. Here, we’ll explore the price ranges of traditional Hawaiian jewelry and then dive into the fascinating process of how these beautiful pieces are made.
For those drawn to the beauty and meaning of Hawaiian jewelry but seeking a more affordable option, Ka 'Ohana Jewelry offers a way to enjoy the elegance of Hawaiian designs without the high price of solid gold.
The Cost of Hawaiian Jewelry: A Range of Options
Hawaiian jewelry is available in three main types, each offering different price points and qualities:
- Plated Hawaiian Jewelry: Starting at around $20 and up, plated jewelry is often the most affordable option. However, because it only has a thin layer of gold, the plating can wear off over time, making it less durable.
- Solid Gold Hawaiian Jewelry: Known for its premium quality and traditional value, solid gold Hawaiian jewelry can range from $500 to thousands of dollars depending on weight, karat, and craftsmanship. Solid gold is an excellent choice for those who want a true heirloom piece, though it may be beyond many people’s budgets.
- Gold-Filled Hawaiian Jewelry: Ka 'Ohana Jewelry offers a perfect middle ground with gold-filled Hawaiian jewelry, which combines a thick layer of gold bonded to a base metal. Gold-filled jewelry retains the beautiful appearance of solid gold while being more durable than plated jewelry. Prices typically range from $100 to $300, offering a lasting, quality piece at an affordable price.
How to Make Hawaiian Jewelry: The Art and Craft of Hand-Carved Heirloom Designs
Creating Hawaiian jewelry is a skilled craft that requires both precision and artistry. Traditionally, Hawaiian jewelry is hand-carved with intricate designs and meaningful symbols. This process involves several key steps, each adding to the unique charm and beauty of the piece.
- Designing the Piece
The journey begins with the design, where Hawaiian motifs like hibiscus flowers, plumeria, and scrollwork are planned. Each design is inspired by Hawaiian nature and culture, with elements like the maile leaves symbolizing love, unity, and respect. In the case of Hawaiian heirloom jewelry, designs often include Old English-style script engraved with a name or meaningful phrase, adding a personal touch.
- Metal Selection and Preparation
Traditionally, Hawaiian jewelry is crafted in solid gold, though today gold-filled and plated metals are also popular options. At Ka 'Ohana Jewelry, we use high-quality gold-filled metal to offer a balance of durability and affordability, allowing more people to enjoy heirloom-inspired designs.
Once the metal is selected, it’s prepared for engraving. Gold-filled pieces, like those crafted by Ka 'Ohana, use a thick layer of gold that is durable and holds up well to the engraving process, creating a piece that looks and feels like solid gold but at a lower cost.
- Hand-Carving and Engraving
Hand-carving is the heart of the process, where skilled artisans use specialized tools to bring the design to life. This is a meticulous stage that requires great attention to detail. Each floral scroll, leaf, and letter is carefully carved, giving the jewelry its characteristic intricate look.
In Hawaiian heirloom jewelry, black enamel is often used to fill the engraved lettering, creating a striking contrast that makes the design pop. This step adds depth and a timeless quality to the piece, helping to keep the engraving visible and giving the jewelry a classic heirloom feel.
- Polishing and Finishing Touches
After carving, the jewelry is polished to achieve a beautiful, smooth finish. This polishing enhances the gold’s luster and brings out the details of the design. For Ka 'Ohana’s gold-filled pieces, we take extra care to ensure each item has a quality finish that matches the traditional elegance of Hawaiian heirloom jewelry.
Hawaiian Jewelry: A Tradition of Legacy and Love
Hawaiian jewelry is more than just a beautiful accessory—it’s a reflection of cultural heritage, family, and love. Since its origin in the late 1800s, when Queen Kapi’olani and Princess Lili'uokalani brought heirloom-style jewelry to Hawaii after Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, Hawaiian jewelry has become a cherished symbol of connection and pride. It is often passed down from one generation to the next, creating a lasting legacy.
Why Ka 'Ohana Jewelry Was Created
At Ka 'Ohana Jewelry, we wanted to offer a meaningful and accessible way to experience the beauty of Hawaiian jewelry. Recognizing that solid gold jewelry can be out of reach for many, we created a collection of gold-filled pieces that honor Hawaiian tradition while making it affordable for a wider audience.
Our mission is to provide jewelry that embodies the quality, symbolism, and beauty of Hawaiian heirloom jewelry without the high price tag. By crafting gold-filled Hawaiian jewelry, we make it possible for people to celebrate their connection to Hawaii and pass down meaningsaful pieces without compromising on quality.
Why Choose Ka 'Ohana’s Gold-Filled Hawaiian Jewelry?
Gold-filled jewelry offers a unique balance between durability and cost. Here’s why Ka 'Ohana’s gold-filled jewelry is an ideal choice:
- Affordability: Gold-filled pieces look and feel like solid gold but at a fraction of the price. Ka 'Ohana’s jewelry is accessible to those who want a quality piece of Hawaiian jewelry without spending thousands of dollars.
- Durability: Gold-filled jewelry has a thick layer of gold, which makes it more resistant to wear and tarnishing compared to gold-plated options. This ensures a piece that can be enjoyed daily and passed down as an heirloom.
- Authenticity: At Ka 'Ohana, we use traditional Hawaiian motifs and quality craftsmanship to create jewelry that’s true to Hawaii’s cultural heritage, allowing you to wear a piece of the islands every day.
Discover Ka 'Ohana’s Collection of Hawaiian Jewelry
If you’re inspired by the history and beauty of Hawaiian jewelry, Ka 'Ohana Jewelry offers a collection that brings tradition and accessibility together. Our pieces feature timeless designs, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces that showcase the beauty of Hawaiian floral scrolls, hibiscus, and plumeria.
Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift or a personal keepsake, Ka 'Ohana’s gold-filled Hawaiian jewelry lets you celebrate Hawaii’s culture and spirit in a way that’s both affordable and enduring. Explore our collection and find the piece that speaks to you.