The Meaning of Puka Shells
29 SEP 2017
CLASS
Puka shells are found in Hawaii and are recognizable because of the naturally occurring hole found in each one. Because of this hole, the shells are easily made into "good luck" and "well wishes" jewelry.
1 The Hawaiian Meaning of Puka
The Hawaiian word "puka" means "hole." Puka shells originally contained mollusks who died or were eaten. As the empty shell was knocked about in the ocean, a hole would wear in the weak center of the shell.
2 Puka Necklaces
Hawaiians typically give puka necklaces to wish the recipient goodwill or good luck. If given to a sailor, a puka necklace is supposed to help bring him home safely.
3 Puka for Good Luck
Finding puka shells is good luck. The more perfectly symmetrical the shell, the better your luck will be.