Koru – Inanga Pounamu

This Pounamu taonga is a stunning blend of craftsmanship and natural beauty. Standing at 50mm tall, it is carved from a piece of Inanga Pounamu—a stone known for its soft, pale green tones that evoke serenity and connection. When held to the light, this piece reveals a gorgeous olive-green glow, a subtle reminder of the depth and life within Pounamu.

At the heart of this pendant is a beautifully carved koru. The koru is a powerful Māori symbol representing new beginnings, growth, and the strength found in connection and balance. Its spiral form reflects an unfurling silver fern frond, embodying the idea of continual renewal and the cyclical nature of life. This timeless design carries a message of hope and the importance of nurturing our relationships and personal journeys.

On the back of the pendant, I left the live edge or rind—the rough crust that forms the outer layer of Pounamu in its natural state. This creates a tactile contrast to the smooth and polished front. The live edge serves as a visual and physical reminder of the stone’s journey from the wild rivers of Aotearoa to becoming a taonga that carries meaning and connection. It is also a way to honour the untouched beauty of the stone as it was found.