Honolulu Area General Info

In the Hawaiian language, Honolulu means "sheltered bay" or "place of shelter." It lies along the southeast coast of the island of Oahu and of the City & County of Honolulu. The population was 371,657 at the 2000 census.

Gemstone - Black Coral: Black Coral is the State Gemstone of Hawaii. The anniversary gemstone for the 35th year of marriage, Coral is used to build an emotional foundation. Coral is often given as a gift to children in many countries because coral is believed to protect children. Legend also says coral can cure madness and give wisdom.

Flower - Native Yellow Hibiscus (Hawaiian Name - Ma'o hau hele): Almost ninety percent of Hawaii's native flora are found nowhere else in the world. A primary ingredient in many herbal teas, Hibiscus has many healing properties. In fact, the ancient people of Hawaii had numerous uses for this beautiful flowering plant. Hawaiians used the the light, tough wood to build outriggers of canoes. The bark fibers from the Hibiscus plant were used for ropes, net bags and tapa. The flowers were used as a medicine with laxative properties.

"Hau blossoms, ancient symbols of the human soul, are ephemeral. Unfurling yellow in the morning, turning orange in the afternoon, and withering to a dark pinkish orange by nightfall, the flowers are replaced daily." (Kepler,A.K.1983. Hawaiian Heritage Plants.)