The Meaning Behind Pounamu
Discover the symbols of connection, strength, and spirituality in every piece.
Pounamu is far more than jewellery; it is a deeply meaningful taonga (treasure) that embodies the stories, identity, and traditions of Aotearoa. Each design carries its own unique symbolism, resonating with the wearer on a personal and spiritual level. From the Koru's representation of growth to the Hei-Matau’s wish for safe journeys, Pounamu connects us to the land, to each other, and to the heritage of Māori culture.
Let each piece of Pounamu guide you with its powerful message and timeless beauty.
List of Services
-
Pikorua (single twist)List Item 1
The Maori single twist symbol consists of a closed loop with three knots. Pikorua, as the Maori name this symbol, refers to eternal emerging paths in life. The eight-shaped single twist symbolizes the strength of the bond between two people, their loyalty and friendship. It signifies the spiritual merger of two people for eternity. Although people will take different paths in their lives they will always be connected and will return to each other.
-
Double and triple twistList Item 2
Also an eternity symbol. Refers to the bond between peoples of cultures rather than individuals. These Maori pendants were traditionally given offering friendship between different tribes.
Maori twist symbols also refer to the so called ‘three baskets of knowledge’. This is a concept that, very roughly translated, has to do with how, the for humankind need knowledge to survive, came to the world. According to the legend the god Tane (creator of the first man Tiki) brought down those three baskets from the heavens.
-
The WhaleList Item 3
The whale with its great size and obvious intelligence played a important part 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 jewelry and art works, often passed down for generation.
-
KoruList Item 4
The spiral is a Koru, represents the fern found as it opens bringing new life and purity to the world. It also represents peace, tranquility and spirituality along with a strong sense of regrowth or new beginnings. The Koru is also often associated with nurturing so when interlocked with others is frequently used to represent the strength and purity of a loving relationship with family.
-
Peka Peka
Native NZ bat, the peka peka is a very old maori Design, it is a guardian and will protect and keep you safe.
-
Hei-Matau
These very stylised fish hooks represent strength, prosperity, abundance, and a great respect for the sea. It also is said to provide good luck and safety when traveling over water so is often worn by travelers.
-
Heart
Represents family, nurturing and love.
-
Toki (Adze)
The Toki had much meaning to the Maori, fashioned from stone or greenstone it was an essential tool for survival and day to day life of a Maori tribe. That's the reason the maori attribute the spiritual meaning of strength and power to the Toki, this symbol resembles determination, control, strength focus and honour. Its shape represents an axe head.
-
Southern Cross
Maori navigated by the stars, and at the end of their journey they came upon Aotearoa, meaning intelliagence, safe passage across water, when you hold this pendant up to the light you will see a star.
-
Manaia
Means containing Mana (prestige and power). It has the head of a bird, the body of a human and the tail of a fish, representing the sky, earth and sea. It is your guardian angel. It is a spiritual piece that protects the wearer from evil and bad things.
-
Contemporary Peka Rua Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
-
Tiki
One of the most popular and most recognizable Maori symbols. Tiki is emblematic for the whole Polynesian hemisphere, an emblem of Polynesian cultures from Hawaii to New Zealand. According to legends tiki was the first man on earth who originated from the stars. The first mortal person who created the first woman after his image.
The exact meaning of the tiki symbol is disputed. There are several opinions but the most accepted are that tiki stands for fertility, the frequently occurring hands placed on the loins is a direct reference to fertility. Tiki is a good luck charm meant to keep evil spirits away. Other theories state that tiki represents the human embryo, or the Maori god Tiki who was considered responsible for the creation of life.
-
Mere / Patu / War Club
Represents the weapon the Maori used. It gives the wearer strength and courage. It signifies high status and authority.
-
Porohita / The Disc
Represents the circle of life which has no beginning or end. It means you have a choice to do and achieve whatever you want to in life.
Powered by
