We are exploring green in this unique Whale Pendent Design. Here we use the clear green lamp work bead from our Etsy friends at "jilleglass" out of Sweden. We added lovely green seed beads in the four braided sections in this hand crafted glass beaded necklace. Measuring in at 34" we use two smaller coin beads in the focal center with the whale and on higher up on each side we alternative different green colors to weave 16-beaded cords and added larger lentil lamp work beads - can you see the differences in colors on each side? The ends are also unique in that we switched out our Oimatsu pattern for 2- eight cord weaving pattern (another unusual touch to our designs).
As a one-of-a-kind design this will be the jewelry design people will stop and ask to see. The design is based on a Japanese Braiding Technique using 16 cords that are woven into a unique pattern and each movement is a literal stitch (of glass beads).
The braiding pattern involved here is called Continuous Beaded Braid (CBB) and we use the Kumihimo style of Oimatsu. We have the instructions for making similar designs for those Kumihimo braiders interested in learning this unique braiding technique. See link in this STORE under Kumihimo Instructional Patterns
There will never be more than one of each design as you will determine length, bead colors, magnetic end cap, and accent beads. About 12,000 -15,000 seed beads are loaded onto 16 cords that are then woven into this magnificent art necklace. This statement necklace is finished with a strong magnet end cap that has an extra strong hold to keep it safely snug around your neck.
Our necklaces feel wonderful to wear and require little to almost no care. Simply use a slightly moistened towel with a dap of dish soap added to it as you clean it every few months to keep dust free and bright. This beautiful hand-crafted style necklace was made using hundreds of glass beads from around the world that are meticulously loaded onto multiple cords that are woven then together on a Japanese Marudai braiding stand.
Akalei Designs make great gifts for woman, girls, and men! Akalei is the Hawaiian word for "bead reflections" which captures this unique style only available on Maui. We specialize in designing a wide range of modern yet classic Hawaiian looking lei. For customized orders please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that creates beautiful and durable interlaced necklaces and bracelets. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are used for belts (obijime) on kimonos
It is my goal to provide you with a long lasting, beautiful piece of jewelry that you will enjoy wearing for years to come. I take great care in the construction of my pieces to ensure just that. Please note: colors may slightly differ from their appearance on your display, as it depends on your monitor settings.
Please send me a message with questions or comments.
Thanks for stopping by!
Aloha Aku.
