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I'd like to start off with saying that Both Hand-carved and even some mass-produced, bone hook necklaces, can be beautiful.

Everyone has their own tastes and preferences.

However, this information is meant for those that are needing tips on purchasing a Traditional, Hand-Carved, Bone hook, necklace.

What to look for when purchasing a Traditional Bone Hook necklace.

1.  Pay attention to the shape and look of the Hook.

Does the Bone hook have a smooth rounded shape to it, or it is rugged and flat?

A flat look and feel could be reason to believe that it was machine cut. This does not apply to all bone hooks but most Traditional, well-made hooks would not be flat.

Does the bone hook have a dull, flat tip or is it somewhat, sharp to the touch?

Traditional Bone hooks were actually used for fishing back in the ancient times. Today, a well made Bone hook pendant would be sharp at the tip. If it doesn't look like you could catch a fish with it, it's probably not a traditional hook.

Is the bone bright white or does it have an off-white to almost beige, shade to it?

Most traditional Bone Hooks are not bright white and some will even have natural spots and natural blemishes that add to the unique, Hand-made look and feel of the bone hook.

You also need to be aware of Plastic Bone Hooks. Some of the Hook necklaces on the market are made with Plastics that look like bone.

But what if you come across a rounded shaped hook and you still aren’t sure?....

2.  Pay close attention to how the Hook is attached to the Cord.

Examine closely how the Bone Piece is attached to the cord.

 Is the Bone piece securely and intricately woven onto the cord? Or is it simply strung on through a simple loop?

Traditional, Well-made, Bone hooks are securely woven onto a strong cord so it can be worn in the Ocean. A lot of mass-produced bone hook necklaces come strung on a "black, adjustable nylon rope" that has knots in it. These inexpensive, "nylon ropes" are quite tricky to adjust and are not at all suitable for Ocean activity.

As you can imagine, pacific islanders spend a great deal of time in and around the ocean. That’s why traditional bone hook necklaces are worn by many in Hawaii.

Is there a hole drilled into the Bone to attach the cord to it?

Most Traditional Bone hook necklaces do not have a hole drilled into it for attaching. Once again, this does not apply to all Bone hooks. I have seen some beautifully handmade Bone hooks that have a hole drilled into them for stringing. I just like to remind people that there were no drills back in ancient times so if you are really going for a traditional look, try not to go with a hook that has any holes drilled into them.

If you truly want a handmade, Bone hook and you are willing to spend the money for one, then why not be willing to take a little of your time to examine and research the item before you buy it.

Be an Akamai(smart) shopper!

So back to the opening question....

 If you said the one on the left, you are Akamai!(Smart)

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