How did the Hawaiian tradition of flower necklaces come about?

(Skeeze/Pixabay)

Much of Hawaiian culture stems from the customs of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, especially Polynesia. The collars, called laws, were used by natives for various purposes, from as part of religious rituals to making peace agreements between tribes. Not only flowers but also leaves, shells, seeds, nuts and even bones and feathers were used to make the first versions of the adornment.

Over time, tourism made the law become a symbol of Hawaii to the rest of the world. Currently, their most expressive presence is in ceremonies such as graduation, where they are as traditional as gowns and capelos. But with an extra advantage: in addition to flowers, family members also hang money and sweets on the accessory.

Question from TdF Flavia Campos
Sources Hawaii Flower Leis, Aloha Island, Hawaiian Culture Stories

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