Maori Jade Pendants

Much pendants were originally tools which, when not in use, were worn as pendants (talismans) or even earrings. The fish hook for example, was initially made of bone but later on, it became a piece of jewelry often crafted from Maori jade.

Also the so called kaka rings, used to restrain the huge captive kaka parrots from flying away is an example of a tool worn as jewelry (mainly as earrings).

Gradually the ornamental use, opposite of functional use, became more prominent. At the same time the designs became more intricate and meaningful.

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Pounamu has historically been valued very highly by the Maori. The value of Maori jade can be compared with the value of gold for the Europeans in that time. The hardness of the greenstone and the harsh environments in which the pounamu was excavated made it a very exclusive stone.

Because pounamu jade is so hard it was very laborious and difficult to carve. Despite this, the Maori artists of the past centuries were able to create the most stunning designs. Each of them having its own spiritual meaning.

This material plays an important role in Maori culture and is still considered a taonga, which means treasure. Therefore, pounamu is protected under the Treaty of Waitangi, and the exploitation of it is restricted and closely monitored.

Tools, weapons, ornaments, and other artifacts were made of it; in particular adzes, the 'mere' (short club), and the Hei-tiki (neck pendant). Nephrite jewellery of Maori design is widely popular with locals and tourists, although some of the jade used for these is now imported from British Columbia and elsewhere.[10]

Maori jade was thought to have magical power. Pounamu was believed to have its own mana (spirit), and was handed down by generations as valuable heirlooms, and often given as gifts to seal important agreements. Not only neck ornaments were crafted but also ceremonial batons and clubs, and blades of ceremonial weapons such as adzes and chizels. For these special items greenstone with the highest quality was used.