What Is the Meaning of the Kukui Nut Lei?
Leis were brought to the Hawaiian islands by ancient Polynesians traveling from Tahiti. Leis are garlands worn around the neck, made from natural materials, and can represent beauty, societal standing or specific messages, like peace agreements between chiefs.
1 Royal Leis
In ancient Hawaii, kukui nut leis were worn only by chiefs.
2 The Kukui Nut
The kukui nut tree, or candlenut tree, was not an indigenous plant, but was brought by Hawaiian settlers from Polynesia. It is now one of the most common trees on the islands, and the nuts are easily attainable for lei-making.
3 Processing the Nut
For leis, kukui nuts are sanded and polished smooth before stringing on the garland.
4 Colors
Kukui nuts come in a variety of colors and so, then, do kukui nut leis. These garlands are found in brown, black, white, blond or any combination of these.
5 Imitations
Some leis are labeled "kukui nut," but are, in fact, plastic beads made to resemble kukui nuts.
Related Articles
