Our Story
Founded in 1979 by Leighton Lam, an artist and lifelong surfer, our company has skillfully handcrafted jewelry in our Honolulu studio ever since. Leighton's artistic journey began during his teenage years as he created his own surfboards using resin as the medium. Intrigued by the flow and blending of different colored resins over his hand-shaped surfboards, he recognized its potential as an art medium. This realization marked the beginning of his lifelong career as an artist.
Guided by Leighton's vision and supported by a team of talented craftswomen and craftsmen, each piece we create exudes a unique blend of originality and artistic grace. As a small family business spanning two generations, we deeply appreciate the support from customers like you. Our aspiration is to provide you with more than just locally crafted jewelry, but also a lasting sense of aloha.
Leighton exhibited in art shows throughout Hawai‘i and the states. Using resin as his medium, his subject and styles were vast, with much of his artwork evoking the ocean.
Leighton launches Leighton Lam Designs. His love of the ocean inspires his discovery of the resin medium as an art form.
Ear Art® earrings modeled by Kristy Turlington. Leighton pioneered the surfboard resin jewelry concept by launching Ear Art®. His first jewelry collection was created to offer something unique and artistic, yet accessible to everyone.
The Hawaiian Nature Collection® began with the intention of elevating Hawaiian designs and themes, imbuing them with dignity and class. This collection is renowned to this day.
Venturing into pearl designs that capture the spirit of the ocean and Hawai‘i, offering a blend of uniqueness and timeless simplicity. The aim to craft versatile, wearable looks for every occasion.
Paradise Lights® came to life when Leighton was designing his home and needed exterior lighting. With the aim of creating a "Hawaiian sense of place," he crafted copper lighting fixtures to reflect the island lifestyle with a focus on high quality and uniqueness.
The company continues to grow, with our staff including a mother and daughter team, as well as talented craftsmen who have been with the company for over 30 years.
Paradise Lights® accentuates homes across Hawai‘i and the states from estates like the winter White House in Kailua to the Surfjack Hotel in Waikiki.
Leighton leverages Hawaiian Nature Collection’s metal cutting techniques to elevate both lighting and art.
Taking our popular designs, we crafted our carved shell collection, creating jewelry with a distinct aesthetic and material, while remaining reflective of Hawai‘i.
By making a dedicated commitment to giving back, we donate 25-30% of all online holiday purchases to support a Hawai‘i nonprofit. Additionally, throughout the year, we contribute in-kind jewelry pieces to dozens of local nonprofits.
"The Gift of Ka‘aumoana." Leighton created a Polynesian Star Navigational compass for Punahou School. The art piece embodies Hawai‘i’s cultural past, educating and enriching future generations.
Leighton & Lani go on a sailing trip in Tahiti. On the island of Taha‘a they meet a family of pearl farmers. For years this local Tahitian family has grown beautiful Tahitian pearls. This is the start of our Tahitian pearl collection.
In collaboration with Lani, part native Hawaiian and long-time hula dancer, the new brand Lani ‘Ae Hawaii is launched, featuring a modern aesthetic with druzy stones and silk beads.
Leighton Lam Designs is ever evolving, drawing inspiration from the essence and captivating beauty of Hawai'i.
For nearly 50 years, Leighton Lam Designs, a two-generation family-owned business, has been crafting locally made jewelry deeply rooted in Hawaii.
