Farewell shell necklace - 4

Necklace made of various small shells and small porcelains.

What is the significance of a Tahitian shell necklace ?
As you say your farewell to Polynesia, Tahitians will show their appreciation for your visit with a traditional shell 'lei' necklace made from tiny polished sea shells. This is their way of saying “Maururu et Nana” meaning “Thank you, come back soon”. Why shells? Because shells last forever and a shell necklace becomes a real, tangible reminder of the person who bid you farewell.