About Maxi
~HO'OMANA'O MAU~
DESIGNER PROFILE
Howard Miao, founder and designer of Maxi, was born on the Chinese mainland and moved to Hawaii with his family at the age of 11 to pursue his dreams. He grew up under the Hawaiian sun.
Howard acquired his design knowledge through managing a wholesale and retail company of Hawaiian jewelry. He honed his design and engraving skills by learning from and studying skilled engravers and jewelry artists.
Five years into his career in jewelry design, his passion for Hawaiian jewelry led to the creation of innovative designs with a modern sensibility, culminating in the establishment of his first flagship store, Maxi.
As both a designer and a manager, Howard's dedication and innovation have driven Maxi to global growth.
As a skilled craftsman himself, Howard's mission as a designer is to offer modern, sophisticated, and highly fashionable designs while preserving the traditions of Hawaiian jewelry.
HAWAIIAN JWELRY
In the late 19th century, Queen Liliuokalani, the last queen of the Hawaiian monarchy and a close friend of the British royal family, is said to have worn a gold bangle engraved with "HO, OMANA, O MAU" (eternal love) in black enamel to mourn the death of Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. This is considered the origin of Hawaiian jewelry.
Today, the jewelry widely known as "Hawaiian jewelry" is officially called "Hawaiian Heirloom Jewelry," with "Heirloom" meaning a treasure or heirloom passed down through generations.
Today, Hawaiian jewelry is a symbol of "eternal memories" and the "Aloha spirit," passed down from grandmother to mother, and from mother to child, and expressing love for family and loved ones. It is
also a keepsake of various anniversaries and celebrations, a protective amulet, and a symbol of happiness, making it a beloved piece of jewelry not only in Hawaii but around the world.
ABOUT ENGRAVE
Flower
The pattern is shaped like a plumeria flower; in Hawaii,
it is used in leis to symbolize welcome and love; it is said to be a highly fragrant and resilient flower.
Scroll
The pattern is inspired by the magnificent waves of Hawaii's ocean,
which are said to continuously bring happiness.
Princess
The scroll pattern has a smooth, polished finish, and
is inspired by Princess Kaiulani, who was hailed as the 'Star of Hope in Hawaii' and continued to give love and hope.
Old English
A combination of waves, said to bring happiness, and the pattern of maile leaves, which symbolize sacred bonds.
Maile
It has been used since ancient times for weddings and special events, and in antiquity it was also used as a symbol of peace, representing a sacred bond.