New Zealand Pounamu Whale Tail Breastplate Pendant

This is a one of a kind medium Whale Tail crafted by hand in our Oro Negro Studio on Karangahape Road out of New Zealand Pounamu stone from the West Coast of the South Island. This piece has been finished off with an adjustable 4-plaited copper waxed cord.

Dimensions: Approx. 50(L) x 17(W) x 8(D) mm

Whale Tail Design: This Whale Tail design akes influence from both indigenous Latin American ornaments of tribes such as the Muisca (Colombia) and the Maori people. The whale with its great size and intelligence played an importan role in the culture of the Maori people. They were often represented as an example of family love with mother and calf always side by side and touching at every opportunity. Beached whales were treasured as gifts from the gods. They were particularly prized for the bone which after several years of curing was used to carve ornate jewellery and art works, often passed down for generation. As a pendant is a symbol of wisdom and tranquility and is said to bring good fortune to the wearer.