There is a profound narrative captured within the contours of a Pounamu toki, one that speaks to the heart of Aotearoa’s cultural heritage and the land’s natural beauty. Today, we introduce ‘Waiora Whānau,’ a name that embodies the vitality and community represented by a specially crafted 6 cm toki made from kawa kawa pounamu. This…
The name “Whānau Kōtuitui” paints a vivid picture. Meaning “Family Binding”, it captures the soul of this collection. Pounamu is so intrinsically linked to our land, its people, and their ancestry that it moves beyond mere aesthetics to become a taonga (treasure) with profound meaning. This is the wairua of pounamu, more commonly known to…
When one beholds a handcrafted piece of pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade or greenstone, its depth, history, and cultural significance are immediately evident. Named “Whakapapa Arohanui,” this particular set embodies more than just the majestic aura of Raukaraka pounamu and its vivid hues of orange, yellow, and pale green. “Whakapapa Arohanui” translates to…
The heart of Aotearoa New Zealand echoes with stories of resilience, of traditions ancient and new. As this pounamu took shape, bearing the name Kaitiaki – the Guardian, two cultures merged their tales, weaving a tapestry of love, strength, and unity. Kaitiaki stands not just as a pendant but as a symbol of protection, but…
In the quiet embrace of Kaitorete Spit/Birdlings Flat in Canterbury, New Zealand, nature bestowed a humble gift—a beach pebble of Jasper, weathered by time and tides. From this unassuming stone, a short, wide toki emerged, standing at a mere 4cm in height, yet carrying a profound weight of meaning. This toki, cradled by a four-braid…
Every creation has a soul, a resonance that echoes its origins and intentions. My latest set, named Wairua Whero, meaning the ‘Spirit of Red,’ embodies just that. This spirit is not merely a reflection of the deep earthy red-brown hue of the catlinite stone but a testament to the profound stories and traditions that the…
Jewelry often tells a story, not just of the one who wears it, but also of its origin and making. This story is even richer when the jewelry is named, giving it an identity that resonates with its essence. Such is the case with “Kōhatu Whenua”, which in Māori translates to “Land’s Stone”. From a…
Kōtuitui, a name derived from the Māori word meaning to interlink or connect, perfectly embodies the core spirit of this collection. Much like the threads that interweave to form a strong bond, this set of Pounamu pendants represents the intricate and inseparable links that bind us to family and our roots in Aotearoa. Carved from…
Deep within the waters of the Arahura River, a gemstone emerges to tell a tale of unity and lineage. Named “Tātai Hono,” which translates to ‘linking lineage’ or ‘connecting lineage,’ this set of twin toki is a testament to the extraordinary bond of two brothers. Sharing the same birthday, albeit three years apart, their connection…
When it comes to embodying symbolism and cultural significance, few artifacts are as telling as the toki carved from pakohe. Recently, I had the honor of creating a special pakohe toki for a dear friend, one that holds deep resonance. Named “Te Ara,” which translates to “the path,” this toki is more than just a…
