On the sun-soaked shores of Maui, just steps from the vibrant town of Lahaina, the Tahitian Pearl Necklace Workshop offers a rare chance to dive deep into the artistry of handcrafted jewelry. Held every Thursday morning at the Hoku Rotunda, this one-hour workshop invites visitors to slow their pace and engage intimately with the island's natural treasures by creating a silk-knotted necklace featuring genuine Tahitian pearls.
This experience is much more than a simple craft class; it’s a gateway to understanding Maui’s unique cultural connection to the sea and its precious gems. The workshop is led by Anna Lindquist, a skilled jewelry artist and co-founder of Kai Pua Gallery. Anna’s journey from fine art painter to jewelry maker is informed by years living on Maui and her appreciation for ocean-inspired pieces. You’ll not only learn refined knotting and stringing techniques but also the significance of the pearls, which come from the black-lipped oyster native to Tahiti’s crystal waters just south of Hawaii.
At the heart of the workshop, guests select from elegant designs featuring one, three, or five Tahitian pearls—each carefully chosen for their natural luster and varying hues. Using silk cord dyed black or brown and gold-filled clasps and beads, these necklaces blend classic Hawaiian aesthetics with personal creativity. The hands-on guidance includes mastering silk knotting, tool handling, and finishing touches, ensuring that each piece is uniquely yours and professionally polished.
Located in the Hoku Rotunda at 2605 Kaanapali Parkway, the workshop fits seamlessly into a Maui itinerary filled with ocean adventures and scenic hikes. Lahaina, a historic whaling village turned vibrant hub, offers charming shoreline restaurants and art galleries to explore before or after your session. This workshop stands out as a tactile memento of your Maui visit, ideal for travelers who seek dynamic souvenirs beyond the typical.
Beyond crafting, Anna’s expertise lends an educational layer by illuminating how these pearls form and their symbolism in Pacific Island culture. It’s a genuine intersection of nature, artistry, and tradition that enriches your appreciation for local craftsmanship.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a meaningful Maui keepsake, this workshop rewards curiosity and patience with a stunning wearable artwork. Come ready to create, connect with the island’s spirit, and leave with more than just a necklace—but a story tied to the Hawaiian shores itself.