This Weekend

The Akoya Pearl
A new journal essay on Japanese saltwater pearls, Pacific light, and why Akoya feels so at home in Honolulu.
Honolulu · Est. 1997 · 3,000+ Gemstones & Jewelry Supplies
Honolulu · Est. 1997
Honolulu · Est. 1997 · 3,000+ Gemstones & Jewelry Supplies

A new journal essay on Japanese saltwater pearls, Pacific light, and why Akoya feels so at home in Honolulu.
“For over 20 years, this bead store has been more than just a place to shop—it’s been a true creative home for me. Jason and Jamie, the owners, feel like family. Their warmth, encouragement, and incredible creativity have inspired not only me, but so many others to see ourselves as artists. Through the years, I’ve learned invaluable skills here—from wire wrapping and soldering to designing unique pieces I never imagined I could create. Their passion for teaching and sharing knowledge is unmatched, and they make every visit both educational and uplifting. What makes this shop truly special is the sense of community. Whenever I’m feeling bored, a bit down, or just need a creative escape, this is my go-to place. It’s filled with energy, inspiration, and some of the most talented and fascinating beaders you could ever hope to meet. This store isn’t just about beads—it’s about connection, creativity, and joy. I’m so grateful to be part of this wonderful community.”
A private show for our Ohana Plus members. This is a tiny pearl show — all Akoya whites in 3-3.5mm, handpicked by us in Kobe, Japan. Limited quantities on everything, especially the very special blue with pink and gray overtones — those are rare. Akoya pearls are the gold standard for luster, roundness, and that unmistakable glow. These are natural saltwater pearls, and at this size they're perfect for delicate knotted necklaces, stackable bracelets, and dainty earring designs. We'll walk through what to look for in saltwater pearls — luster, surface quality, overtone, and how to tell real quality from the rest. Can't make it live? The replay will be available the following day.
Online Live · 1:30 pmString your own forever lei in one sitting. This Make and Take Saturday, our team will teach you the straight stringing technique — the simplest, most satisfying way to build a necklace from scratch. No crimps, no wire, no tools. Just beads, thread, and your two hands. Choose from two pikake necklace kits, each inspired by the flower lei tradition. The Ho'onani pairs warm sandalwood beads with hand-carved mother-of-pearl pikake buds — classic, luminous, meant to be worn daily. The Uluwehi swaps in green and cream resin pikake for a fresh, garden-inspired look that feels like spring year-round. The lesson is free with any kit purchase. Walk in between 3 and 6 PM, sit down at the beading table, and leave wearing a lei you made with your own hands.
Workshop · 3:00 pmIsland flowers you can wear. Jamie introduces our Hawaii Flowers Earring Kit — plumeria, pikake, and hibiscus-inspired designs using gemstone beads, glass flowers, and sterling findings. She'll walk through the kit contents, show the finished pieces, and share tips for making each pair. Tune in live on YouTube. Links will be posted here before the show.
Online Live · 1:30 pm