Hei Koru Pounamu Aotearoa New Zealand

(Diam 27.5 x D6) mm / adjustable 4-plait black waxed cord

The Koru design is inspired by one of New Zealand’s most sacred symbols of nature, the silver fern. The fern begins life in a spiral shape before it fully matures. The traditional koru design becomes a koru Pepe when the face of a mythical sea creature, known by Māori as mania is incorporated into the design. Much like the young fern, the koru design represents nature, a new life or new beginnings.

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, Karangahape Rd, Tamaki Makourau. 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 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.