Oronegro
Hei Matau Extra Small Kawakawa Pounamu Pendant
Hei Matau Extra Small Kawakawa Pounamu Pendant
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Handcrafted by our team at Oronegro jewellery, this Hei Matau is carved out of a stunning Kawakawa pounamu with black speckles. The piece is bound with a brown coloured 4-cord braid binding.
Dimensions: 34 (L) x 22 (W) x 10 (D) mm
Hei Matau shape:
The Hei Matau, or fishhook, is a significant symbol in Māori culture, representing a deep connection to Tangaroa, the God of the Sea, and the powerful relationship between people and the ocean. Rooted in the legend of Māui, who used a fishhook to pull up the North Island of New Zealand from the sea, the Hei Matau symbolizes protection, prosperity, and respect for the land (whenua). Originally a practical tool for fishing, it has evolved into a cherished adornment, carrying stories and messages from one generation to the next, reflecting the enduring bond between Māori, the sea, and their heritage.
Click here to read more about Hei Matau.
About Oronegro:
As artisans of Ngāi Tahu Pounamu, our pounamu is certified New Zealand greenstone sourced directly by the iwi. We take immense pride and care in our guardianship of this precious stone, honouring the trust placed in us by Ngāi Tahu as tauiwi craftspeople.
Established in 2001, here at Oronegro Jewellery Studio we aim to craft taonga using the traditional protocols of Māori Whakairo. All of the pieces sold of this site have been handcrafted in the Studio on Karangahape Road, Auckland. The Oronegro team is lead by jeweller and artist Ernesto Ovalle who has over 25 years in the jewellery trade and has been carving New Zealand pounamu since 2002.
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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!