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Oronegro

Breastplate Pounamu Aotearoa New Zealand Greenstone

Breastplate Pounamu Aotearoa New Zealand Greenstone

Regular price $560.00 NZD
Regular price Sale price $560.00 NZD
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(H74 x W38 x D9) mm

Adjustable waxed cord

The breastplate developed from a means of protection and armour to body adornment signifying status and mana (power). The Breastplate symbolises strength, bravery and honour. Wearing a breastplate can help you find strength, courage, protection and a feeling of safety and calmness. Fortune favours the bold.

Breastplates have been made for ornamental and spiritual purposes in many different parts of the world throughout history. Based on armour protecting the vital organs, breastplates are worn flat across the chest for honour and spiritual protection.

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. As Colombian carvers, our practice is also about connecting with our own Indigenous South American art forms. 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 always be taken to minimise impact which could potentially cause hairlines cracks or breaks. Wearing your pounamu close to the skin will always act as a protective measure.


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More about our pounamu

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!