Natural Puka Shell Choker Necklace -- Vintage

Real puka shells have distinctive small holes and variations in shape and color. Please see the photographs for close-ups of the choker necklace. This white, off-white, and sand-colored necklace was likely made in the 70s. First a trend among Hawaiian and west coast artists, hippies, and surfers, the puka shell jewelry fad spread among celebrities, college students, bohemian preps, and finally the general population. These shells are in good vintage condition, with no cracks or missing shells. But if perfection is your thing, puka shells do not deliver. Each shell is unique and may be irregular. Some are slightly conical; some have convex and concave areas; the central hole may be slightly off-center; and some have spiral or round indentations. This indicates the shells are authentic and not mass-produced.

Ancient Hawaiians believed that wearing puka shells would protect them on their ocean voyages. Puka shells represent a connection to the sea--naturally shaped and smoothed by the ocean--and are seen as a gift from the sea and a symbol of resilience. Authentic puka shells are the apex of a cone snail shell that has been naturally polished by years of tumbling in the ocean surf. In Hawaiian and other Pacific island traditions, the shells have cultural and spiritual significance. They were worn by warriors and chiefs as talismans for protection, strength, and good fortune, embodying the concept of mana (spiritual power).

This necklace is 16 1/3 inches long and has a barrel clasp. It is strung on fishing line, which is typical of the original necklaces. Suitable for males, females, and nonbinary folks. Shipping is free in the contiguous U.S.