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Hei Toki Pounamu Aotearoa Greenstone
Hei Toki Pounamu Aotearoa Greenstone
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(W6 xD7 x H30) mm / adjustable 3-plait black waxed cord
Pounamu sourced from Arahura River, Te Tai o Poutini o Te Waipounamu West Coast of the South Island
The agency of Māori in the developmental lineage and use of hei tiki is seen as being closely aligned to the mana of hei tiki as an iconic taonga-tuku-iho ‘treasured heirloom’.The toki has its origins as a stone tool used throughout Polynesia. Māori revered their toki poutangata (ceremonial adzes), made of pounamu lashed onto exquisitely carved wooden handles. Toki poutangatas were wielded by rangatira / Māori chiefs and used on ceremonious occasions. Their spiritually significant taonga contain mauri (life force) and thus were carefully passed down generations.
Māori knowledge, mātauranga intrinsically recognises that all animate and inanimate elements are infused with spirit or living essence; encompassing the element of stewardship, or kaitiakitanga, associated with the term when it is used in relation to resources, including land and water.
OUR STORY
Crafted by hand at the Oro Negro Studio on Karangahape Road. We follow Māori Whakairo protocol in crafting taonga that honours the traditions of tangata whenua o Aotearoa. Acknowledging and upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is an integral part of our Aotearoa New Zealand perspective.
CARE OF YOUR TAONGA
Pounamu polishes and shines itself overtime by absorbing the natural oils of your skin. Likewise, rubbing into the stone’s surface a natural oil such as olive or coconut oil will also add lustre. Our pounamu can be worn daily, yet care should be taken to minimise impact which could potentially cause hairline cracks or breaks. Wearing your pounamu close to the skin will always act as a protective measure.
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Care instructions
Our Taonga & jewellery is made of high-quality metals and stones, that are made to be worn daily however they can still be damaged through contact with harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and collisions. Keep your Taonga/jewellery away from chlorinated water as it can erode the metal, Avoid any hard knocks and scratches to your stones. If your stones look dry, rub it against your skin or rub a small amount of natural oil such as olive or coconut on to it.
Gifting Pounamu
Pounamu is a tangible expression of love and appreciation, a physical gift that carries the essence of New Zealand's land and culture. Sourced from the heart of Aotearoa, this precious stone serves as a reminder of the significant place we call home, imbued with the rich cultural meaning of Māori whakairo (carving) traditions. When we gift pounamu, we are not only sharing a piece of New Zealand’s history but also intertwining it with our own personal stories, creating a connection that honors both the land and the people we cherish.
We invite you, when gifting a piece of pounamu, to wear it yourself before presenting it to your loved one. During this time, reflect on the blessing they are in your life. As the stone absorbs your skin oils, it will carry a part of you, creating a deeply personal connection that your friend will cherish.
Want to see more?
We are located in the heart of Auckland's CBD, making it easy for you to visit our store and experience the beauty of our handcrafted pieces in person. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or simply want to explore our collection, we'd love to welcome you and share the stories behind our creations. Come and visit us today!