During the time of the first Hawaiian monarchs, Koa was revered as the wood that gave warriors their strength and power. They used Koa to make canoes, weapons and other items for daily life. They also carved long tree trunks into surfboards and fashioned bowls, called umeke, for serving food.
Today, koa wood is still revered as the wood of the Hawaii monarchs and ali’i. It is a beautiful, rich wood that is prized worldwide for its unique characteristics. It is a hardwood that grows only in Hawaii and can only be harvested sustainably.
It is a strong, durable and beautiful wood that is used to make fine furniture and accessories. Whether you are in the market for a new bed frame, dining table or any other Koa-based home decor piece, Martin & MacArthur has a line of beautifully made koa furniture that will fit your style and budget.
The story of Koa in Hawaii is a very special one and each tree has its own story. That is why it takes decades for a tree to be harvested, so the only way to ensure that you are getting the best quality koa possible is to buy it from a reputable company like Martin & MacArthur that has been around for over 60 years. The company only uses previously fallen koa trees and works with koa farmers and conservationists on the Big Island to reforest koa for future generations to enjoy.
There are many different grades of Koa. The most expensive and sought-after is called curly Koa, which has a rippling wavy pattern running perpendicular to the natural grain of the wood. Only 10% of all Koa is curly, making it a rare and very valuable wood.
Most people don’t realize that most of the cheap souvenirs they see on the shelves in stores in Hawaii are not made form Koa at all. Buyer beware. Many of these inexpensive wood accessories such as earrings, bangles and bracelets are made from Monkeypod or Mahogany, not Hawaiian Koa wood. Many of these cheap knock off products are made in China or the Philippines. Other woods do not have the same beautiful color of Koa and they are not grown exclusively in Hawaii.
If you are looking for a truly authentic gift from Hawaii, look no further than a handmade koa wooden watch or a beautiful Koa Eternity Rings from Martin & MacArthur. These accessories are the perfect way to commemorate your Hawaii vacation and show your love of all things Hawaiian.
For over 60 years, Martin & MacArthur has mastered the art of using beautiful curly koa wood for their exquisite Koa-based furniture and home accessories. The company’s unparalleled craftsmen are experts in blending beauty and function, creating pieces that are both heirloom quality and modern in design. You can find a stunning selection of Koa-based furniture and Hawaiian lifestyle collections from Martin & MacArthur in their showrooms on all major Hawaii islands.