Like other gems, the shell leis are highly prized and expensive.
These leis cost $2,000 and above depending on the number of strands, colors, design.
The following description of the Niihau Shell Necklace or Lei is extracted from a Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau Web Site.

Niihau Shell Necklace
The Niihau Shell Lei is a special Hawaiian necklace made from rare shells that can only be found on the island of Niihau.
These are the only shells that are classified as “gems” and once you see them, you’ll understand why.
These delicate shells come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, orange and even a rare blue.
Whole families are involved in collecting the shells and carefully sorting them by size and color.
The intricate craftsmanship that goes into a Niihau Shell Lei makes each one a prized possession.

©2005 Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau