Maita'i Black Pearl Shell Earrings clothing poi balls were made of

poi balls were made of moss wrapped in flax leaves and made very distinctive sounds as they hit a person's wrist or body and arms

Siapo is made from the bark of the mulberry tree

Hand dyed hau (wild hibiscus) fibers in a rainbow of colors

These legs were variously elaborated with notches

Hook information: 18" necklace

Maita'i Black Pearl Shell Earrings clothing poi balls were made ofAncient Tahitians sometimes adorned themselves with jewelry, mostly made from shells, coral, wood, or stone. Artisans would smooth and carve and create distinctively Tahitian pieces. At times, they would create jewelry for the ear. The natural smooth finish and luster of the black lipped Tahitian oyster shells is perfect for jewelry making. Our artisans have created the Maita'i Collection an ornamental collection of unique Tahitian black pearl shell