Aug 9, 2021 · Today, there are many shapes of Pounamu Greenstone available. Here are the meanings of the different jade designs: TOKI/ADZE. The Toki, or adze, was designed as a practical instrument, most widely incorporated in axes and a ceremonial symbol made solely for chiefs and warriors.

Feb 19, 2025 · Its name shapes the land itself, Te Waipounamu, the waters of greenstone. For generations, pounamu has been revered, gifted, and safeguarded. Coveted for its strength, beauty, and rarity, it has served as a symbol of mana, carved into tools, weapons, and adornments, or passed down as treasured heirlooms. More than just a stone, pounamu is a ...

Each Maori symbol used in greenstone jewelry carries its own unique meaning and significance, adding depth and cultural richness to these beautiful pieces. Read here about the history of Pounamu Greenstone and where to find it!

Our greenstone designs are steeped in meaning and inspired by the art, culture, and beauty of New Zealand. Many pounamu meanings stem from historical accounts of Māori life and the rich mythological and spiritual beliefs that Māori hold.

Explore the symbolism of pounamu shapes and meanings in traditional and modern carvings. Discover stories behind toki, roimata, and others.

Aug 19, 2022 · Here are the greenstone necklace traditional shades: Inanga – A grey/green colour that is found either opaque or translucent; Kahurangi – One of the rarest types of greenstone, Kahurangi is a highly translucent light green shade free from flaws; Kawakawa – A dark green shade with varying intermediate shades

Nov 1, 2024 · Common Shapes and Designs. Greenstone carvings are more than just pretty jewelry. Each shape tells a story and carries deep meaning in Māori culture. Let's dive into the most common designs and what they represent. Toki (Adze) Design. The Toki, shaped like an axe head, is a powerhouse of Māori symbolism. It represents: Strength (it could fell ...

Formed by the movement of Pacific and Australian tectonic plates over thousands of years. New Zealand nephrite jade, also known as greenstone, or pounamu to Māori, is formed by intensive heat and pressure deep under the earth of the Southern Alps.

Learn about the meaning and symbolism of all our traditional carved greenstone jewellery, from the Toki Adze and Koru, to Hei Matau, Pikorua and many more.

Apr 21, 2019 · As the name also suggests, the stone is green in color and can take up several shades of green, from light pale to dark emerald green and even apple green. It was first discovered by European colonizers who wanted to expand into New Zealand, and it was they who first called it “greenstone”.