Shells have always made a great style statement in the Islands' beach-oriented design scene. When we saw rows of shells sewn on to the hem of a Dior dress on the Paris runway, we knew those chic and beachy embellishments were going to be huge all over the world this summer. Then we started seeing them on everything from hair ornaments to statement shoes by a mix of international designers. And, hey, we know shells are not just for summer in Hawai'i, but we were surprised to see them carrying over into fall on a Dolce & Gabbana suit.

With all this international inspiration, we decided to see what local jewelry designers are currently creating with shells. Here's a sampling.

Kristel Bandisch of Makawao, Maui, often employs shells for her Rockabella Jewels. Get the earrings, $55, and gold chain with shell pendant, $240, at Pink by Nature in Makawao or online at www.rockabellajewels.com. Circular pendant (at top), $24, from Siam Imports in Mo'ili'ili. Radha Divine collects curvy shells on the North Shore of O'ahu and makes earrings, $45, or combines them with ocean-colored beads, $40; contact radhabliss@gmail.com.

Sierra Dew of Manoa has been collecting shells since her early childhood on Maui. Now she fashions them into chic jewelry by using lost wax casting and silversmithing techniques She especially loves 'opihi shells and spotted cones for her Lotus Love collection, Warrior bracelets and Spiral Eternity rings. Prices range from $60 to $260 at INTO, 40 N. Hotel St. in Chinatown, and online at www.sierradew.com.

Donna Struthers of Kailua creates her own "shells" with handmade lampwork glass beads, combining them with ocean-colored beads and bezel-set beach glass. Get the starfish and beach glass necklace, $89, or, glass shell and bead necklace, $135, at http://donnastruthers.etsy.com. Noelani Love of Noelani Designs on the North Shore employs natural elements, especially shells. Get her design made of abalone, $42, and turquoise with mother-of-pearl earrings, $38, at Pualani in the Kaimana Beach Hotel, Aloha Board Shop in Puck's Alley and Kailua Beachwalk, or online at www.NoelaniDesigns.com.