Roimata Rangimārie
There’s a profound sense of tranquility, an almost sacred bond that forms when we engage in the age-old practice of carving. It’s a process where one not only shapes a physical object but also carves out a personal journey of understanding and connection. My recent endeavour, the crafting of a pounamu roimata, or a tear-shaped greenstone pendant, exemplifies this perfectly. This uniquely personal piece of art serves not just as a captivating piece of jewellery but also as a token of spiritual and cultural significance.
The pounamu roimata, a name that originates from the Maori culture of New Zealand, is a pendant carved with painstaking detail and attention. The piece measures approximately 8 cm long, shaped into a teardrop form with a subtly angled flat end.
Every piece of pounamu (New Zealand jade or greenstone) is unique, a beautiful palette of nature’s artistry. This particular piece presents an enchanting dance of green and white patterns. The natural beauty of the stone is enhanced by the contrast against the honey white cord that holds it. The cord is lashed intricately, weaving a complementary tale of craftsmanship.
In the Maori culture, a roimata is not simply a pendant. It holds profound emotional and spiritual significance. The teardrop shape of the roimata represents sorrow, loss, and healing. It’s believed that wearing a roimata can help soothe emotional pain and foster strength and resilience.
The pounamu, or greenstone, embodies the living essence or spirit (wairua) in Maori beliefs. The stone is said to absorb and hold the spirit and energy of those who handle it, becoming a living part of their personal and family histories. Consequently, a carved pounamu is often handed down through generations, carrying the essence of ancestors and connecting the present to the past.
Carving the pounamu roimata was much more than a creative endeavour; it was a spiritual journey, a discovery of cultural richness, and a testament to resilience. As the roimata hangs against the chest, lashed by the honey white cord, it serves as a tangible reminder of the power of the human spirit and our connections to our ancestors and the world around us.
The pounamu roimata, with its dance of green and white and a story in every subtle curve, is a piece of living history. It stands not only as a symbol of healing and resilience but also as a bridge, linking us to a rich cultural past and urging us forward towards a future grounded in understanding and respect for our shared heritage.
