Tiny Baubles

Lei Chic When it comes to the beach, a little goes a long way.

Like the, ahem, "tiny" three foot waves you scoffed at from the shore that felt more like three building stories once you hit the water. And the itsy bitsy, teeny weeny bikini that landed you the hottie-with-a-body lifeguard.

So it's really no surprise that the ocean's best treasures come in the smallest of packages.

Like the perfectly spiraled miniature cone shells, bits of fiery red coral, dainty puka shell discs, and gorgeous Tahititan and freshwater pearls that appear in latest collection from local designer Marylea Conrad’s popular Ki-ele jewelry line, launched just this week to coincide with the unveiling of her brand new Ki-ele.Com website.

Aptly named Pupu Hinuhinu, after the Hawaiian lullaby serenading the Pacific’s prettiest and shiniest shells (a favorite of Conrad’s two young daughters), the collection pairs the aforementioned organic elements with sleek, modern materials, like glittering gemstones, gold vermeil charms, and hand-worked precious metals.

The result? A beachy chic assortment of beautiful sterling silver hammered bangles, versatile silk wrap bracelets, delicate pendant necklaces, and long shell-strung strands great for layering.

All small in size.
But huge on style.

Lei Chic readers can get 30% off their Ki-ele.Com purchases and free shipping, until April 16, 2010, by entering the code LEICHICLOVESKIELE at checkout. For more info, call 808.561.5691 or email kielehawaii@yahoo.com. To view the full Pupu Hinuhinu collection, click here.