POLYNESIAN CULTURE: PANDANUS & JEWELRY


One of the pleasures of island life is the presence of pandanus. You will recognize this exotic, wacky looking tree because it gives the eye- popping illusion of defying gravity. Its exposed roots support a thick central trunk that seems to burst into a shower of branches and leaves. Not only do these beautiful trees provide shade from the tropical heat, but their long, thin leaves are used to create decorative items such as flowers, handbags, grass skirts, and jewelry.


Polynesian jewelry isn’t just limited to pandanus bracelets and hair ornaments, however. As you sail from island to island, each stop offers up a treasure trove of baubles, which can be worn in the tropics or upon your return home. Fierce tiki amulets on leather straps, shark tooth earrings, black Tahitian pearls, Marquesan seed necklaces strung in elaborate patterns to make bold collars, iridescent, abalone shell rings, tribal necklaces of carved tamanu nuts with various types of beads... all these stun the eye and ornament the wearer.


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