Wonderful vintage Hawaiian puka shell necklace.  The necklace has 100% natural puka shells that are in my opinion, the very best to find. The reason is that they are almost flat in shape because they were tumbled by the ocean and sand the longest. These have to be some of the very first necklaces  made before the Puka craze of the 1970s. Some are even oval in shape.  They have a diameter range of  7.7 mm to 11.6 mm and some are round and some are oblong. They are beaded in a random fashion, giving it a rustic chunky look. 

It is on nylon and has original silver tone barrel clasp. The male end of the clasp has a hand made knot that is visible. It does ot interfere with the operation of the clasp. These shells have natural holes, great wear from the ocean and sand and are bleached white by the sun. They have not been polished. Need to be lightly cleaned. Outstanding natural shells. 

Necklace is 16.5” long.   Weight: 52.8 grams.  Fine, collectible and valuable necklace. Early 1970s. 

MPNM