Discover the Timeless Beauty of Hawaiian Jewelry: A Fusion of Hawaiian Quilting and Floral Elegance

In the early ‘90s Leighton saw a need in the marketplace to elevate traditional jewelry pieces. Prior to the creation of the Hawaiian Nature Collection, many Hawaiian jewelry designs fell into the realm of kitsch and were made overseas. Determined to honor Hawaiian motifs with the respect they deserve, Leighton envisioned a line of jewelry that would exude authenticity, quality, and style. The Hawaiian Nature Collection emerged as a testament to his vision, capturing the essence of Hawaiian beauty with its timeless appeal.Nearly 40 years later, each design showcases the captivating allure of Hawaiian motifs, proudly crafted in Hawaii to this very day.

Creating the Pikake Design:

Leighton’s creation of the Pikake Quilt design began with hand-drawn sketches that were later etched into metal. His aim was to blend the floral elegance of the Pikake flower with the intricate patterns found in traditional Hawaiian quilting. With all of the Hawaiian Nature Collection pieces, Leighton's intention is to fuse art, craftsmanship & heritage.

Hawaiian quilt designs have a rich cultural heritage and are deeply rooted in the history of the Hawaiian Islands. These designs often convey stories, legends, or personal experiences, allowing the quilter to express their connection to the land, ancestors, and the Hawaiian way of life. The combination of the Pikake flower and traditional quilting patterns in Leighton's designs reflects a contemporary interpretation of this cultural heritage, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

The History of the Pikake Flower:

Central to the allure of the Pikake jewelry design is the remarkable Pikake flower, also known as Jasminum sambac. Revered for its delicate beauty and intoxicating fragrance, this captivating blossom holds a cherished place in Hawaiian culture and traditions. With its pristine white petals and symmetrical form, the Pikake flower is considered a symbol of love, purity, and grace. Originally native to Southeast Asia, the Pikake flower found its way to the Hawaiian Islands and quickly became intertwined with the island's rich tapestry of flora. It is believed that the name "Pikake" was bestowed upon this enchanting flower by Princess Kaʻiulani, an esteemed figure in Hawaiian history, who was captivated by its exquisite fragrance reminiscent of jasmine. Traditionally used to create stunning leis for special occasions and to adorn the hair of Hawaiian royalty, the Pikake flower embodies a sense of elegance and regality. Its alluring scent has made it a popular choice for perfumes and essential oils, further cementing its status as an emblem of natural beauty.

The Pikake design, an integral part of the Hawaiian Quilt Collection, represents an artistic fusion of Hawaiian quilting traditions and the timeless elegance of the Pikake flower. Experience the essence of Hawaii through our jewelry pieces, and let the elegance and grace of our jewelry become a cherished part of your own story.