Aroha Kotahi

This recent commission project held a special significance for me. It was a request for a pair of pounamu roimata (teardrop) pendants, one for a father and one for his son. The name I chose for this set, Aroha Kotahi, means “love as one” in Maori, perfectly reflecting the connection between them. The roimata design itself is a powerful symbol in Maori culture, often associated with empathy, compassion, and the sharing of emotions.

The pounamu chosen for this set was a stunning piece of totoweka from the South Westland region of New Zealand. Totoweka pounamu is known for its unique range of colors, and this particular piece was no exception. While it appeared a captivating shade of green at first glance, when held up to the light, revealed a beautiful reddy-brown hue. This subtle shift in color added an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the pendants.

Each roimata pendant measured 9 cm in length, making them impressive yet elegant pieces. The design itself was relatively simple, allowing the beauty of the pounamu to truly shine. I opted for a smooth polish and clean lines, ensuring the pendants would complement any outfit or style.

The concept of a roimata pendant set for a father and son resonated deeply with me. The roimata symbol transcends cultures and speaks to the universal human experience of connection and understanding. This set, crafted from pounamu gifted by the natural world, seemed an ideal way to represent the enduring bond between a father and child.

If you’re interested in learning more about pounamu roimata pendants or commissioning your own set, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m always happy to discuss the possibilities and create a taonga (treasure) that will be cherished for generations to come.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed this look at one of my recent creations.