Kawa Kawa Pounamu Hei Matau/Fish Hook Necklace
Kawa Kawa Pounamu Hei Matau/Fish Hook Necklace
Introducing our exquisite Kawakawa Pounamu Hei Matau—a timeless embodiment of Maori tradition and natural elegance. Meticulously handcrafted from the rare and luminous Kawakawa variety of pounamu, this pendant captures the essence of New Zealand's pristine landscapes.
Glistening with a translucent, lighter green hue, the Kawakawa Pounamu Hei Matau possesses a captivating allure, reminiscent of the crystal-clear waters and lush foliage of Aotearoa. Each piece is a testament to the skill of our master artisans, who have sculpted this treasure with precision and reverence for the sacred stone.
The graceful curvature of the hei matau, or fish hook, pays homage to the Maori legend of Maui, who used a magical jawbone fish hook to pull up the North Island from the depths of the ocean. Symbolizing strength, prosperity, and a deep connection to the sea, our Kawakawa Pounamu Hei Matau embraces these cultural narratives while offering a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.
Wear this piece as a symbol of good fortune and protection, or simply as a stunning accessory that echoes the rich heritage of New Zealand. Whether adorning your neck as a statement piece or given as a thoughtful gift, the Kawakawa Pounamu Hei Matau is an embodiment of craftsmanship, culture, and the enduring beauty of nature. Elevate your style with this unparalleled fusion of tradition and sophistication, and let the spirit of Aotearoa accompany you wherever you go.
Stone: Kawa Kawa.
Cord: White Waxed Cord.
Dimensions: 42mm x 30mm approx.
Meanings Behind the Designs
Koru (Spiral)
The Koru is said to represent new beginnings, growth and regeneration. It is a perfect gift that will last generations
Hei Matau (Fish Hook)
Signifies strength, worn for catching good luck giving protection in travel, especially over water
Rei Puta
The Rei puta is a representaion of the whales tooth, this signafies the importance of Tangaroa (god of the sea) and his children
Manaia
A Manaia is a spiritual gaurdian usually with the head of a bird and the tail of a fish, Representing unity between the spiritual, and the physical worlds
Toki
Power and Strenghth and leadership qualitys
Pikorua (Twist)
the infinty symbol this shows the coming together of two life forces
Mere
This indicates strength commitment and over coming obstacles.
Different types of Pounamu from New Zealand.
There are many different types of pounamu found throughout New Zealand. It is predominantly found on the west coast of the South Island. Pounamu has a special place in Maori culture and was used in all parts of their lives from making tools, weapons and Jewellery.
Kawakawa: This is named after the leaves of the pepperwood tree. This bright to dark green with black spots and inclusions.
Inanga: Is named after young whitebait, which is a small translucent native fish. the stone can be from a very pale green to almost white this to has very translucent qualities.
Totoweka: A weka is a native flightless bird. The name of this basically means “blood of the weka”. It’s a rare form of pounamu speckled or streaked with red through the stone.
Tahutahi: Also known as snow flake this is a bright coloured green, kind of stone with white cloud or snow-like inclusions
Kahurangi: Very rare in New Zealand, Kaurangi is a jewellery grade carving stone, that is generally a rich green with no inclusions.
Kokopu: Is named after the native trout. A light-coloured opaque stone with obvious brown inclusions.
Tangiwai: This stone is actually a bowenite not nephrite like the other Pounamu mentioned in this description. however, it is still regarded as pounamu.
Raukarakara: “Flower jade”, named after the blossom of the Karaka tree. Is found only in the Marsden area of the west coast of the South Island. This stone has stunning inclusions and different colours flowing through the stone.
