Ni'ihau shell necklace repair?

Question

I see this question was asked and answered 11 years ago. I'm wondering if the information given then by koloagirl still applies. I'm not looking for an appraisal or even a restringing, I just need the clasp reattached, and I cant get any jewelers where I live to touch it. We are coming back to the island in early September and I'd like to connect with someone that can fix it then.

Answer

Good questions — yes: while information and people may shift over time, there *are* still credible places on Kauaʻi today that work with Niʻihau shell necklace (shell-lei / shell-necklace) repair or restrung/repairs, so your September visit gives you a reasonable shot at getting that clasp reattached. Below are what I recommend based on recent sources and what to expect — along with some caveats.

Who on Kauaʻi now works with Niʻihau-shell jewelry and might do your clasp repair

— This shop explicitly lists “genuine Niihau shell necklaces” among the jewelry they carry, and also offers “jewelry and watch repair.”
— A small local bench-jeweler who works with Kahelelani shells, Momi shells, and other traditional Hawaiian shell/gem jewelry, and accepts custom jewelry and repairs.
— The artisan behind this gallery specializes in Niʻihau shell lei / shell jewelry — repairing, re-stringing, making custom pieces, etc.

What you should do to prepare — how to maximize chances of success when you visit

Contact in advance by phone or email. Since this type of jewelry is delicate and artisans often work by appointment (especially for shell-lei repair), reaching out ahead gives you a chance to confirm availability, ask whether they accept repairs (not just new pieces), and schedule a visit. For example, Robert’s Jewelry includes repair among its services.
Bring the necklace + original clasp (if you still have it). Many shell necklaces are restrung by hand — having all original parts (shells, clasp parts, maybe extra string) helps, especially if the shop needs to match the shell type and string strength.
Be prepared that some repair shops may recommend a full restring rather than just clasp reattachment. In community-forum threads, some people reported that local jewelers considered full restringing likely if shell necklaces were broken.
Allow extra time — repairs may not be instant. Authentic Niʻihau shell jewelry is handmade, and working with tiny shells is delicate work. Especially for a prized piece, expect that repair may take more than a quick “jeweler-shop-swap clasp” job.
Check authenticity / shell type carefully if the necklace was bought elsewhere or hand-made. Because many shell necklaces are sold (especially to visitors) that may not use genuine Niʻihau shells, it helps to confirm that your piece is authentic — which also helps the artisan match string/tension to avoid further damage.

Caveats / What to expect — repair is possible, but not guaranteed

Some older threads mention that even shops with experience may decline to work on very delicate or badly damaged shell necklaces. One commenter suggested “most likely it would have to be restrung” depending on damage.
Because each shell lei is handmade and often unique — replacing shells, clasps, or string may slightly change the appearance. If your piece has sentimental value, discuss with the artisan how to preserve as much of the original look as possible.
Price/time could be higher than a typical jewelry repair — shell-lei work is specialized. Also, some shops may prioritize selling new shell jewelry over repair work.

My recommendation (for your visit in early September):

Start by contacting Robert’s Jewelry and Kauai Handmade Jewelry — they seem the most directly appropriate for a repair job like a clasp reattachment, and arguably easiest to access depending on where you stay on the island. If they can’t help or advise against it, reach out to Kauai Curators — a specialist artisan shop working specifically with Niʻihau shell lei. When you call or e-mail, describe exactly what you need (just clasp reattached, no restrung or appraisal), note the shell type if you know it (Niʻihau “Kahelelani” or “momi,” etc.), and ask whether they can accommodate such a repair and roughly how long it would take. Then schedule a visit — better sooner in your trip rather than last minute.