Kaha Mārie – Peaceful Strength

This Tangiwaī Niho, named Kaha Mārie, is not just a piece of Pounamu; it carries the weight of memory, loss, and enduring strength. The story behind this commission is as powerful as the stone itself. Given to me as a polished cobble by a man who received it from his friends after his wife passed away, this Tangiwaī held deep personal significance. The stone, already a stunning example with its bright greens, swirling patterns, and high translucency, was destined to become something even more meaningful.

When the client approached me, his request was clear: he wanted this stone to be transformed into a wearable taonga that would help him remember his wife and give him strength. After careful consideration, I carved it into a large Niho, a shape rich in symbolism and mana. The name Kaha Mārie was chosen to reflect the essence of this piece—Kaha meaning “strength,” and Mārie meaning “serenity” or “peace.” Together, these words encapsulate the balance of strength and calm that this taonga brings to its wearer.

The Niho, or tooth, is a powerful symbol often associated with strength, resilience, and protection. Traditionally, it represents the sharpness and power of a the shark/mako or whale/tohorā, capable of cutting through adversity. In this context, the Niho takes on an even deeper meaning. It symbolises the strength needed to move forward after a profound loss, the resilience to carry on, and the protection of cherished memories.

For the client, Kaha Mārie is a way to keep his wife close to his heart, to feel her presence and draw strength from the love they shared. The name also reflects the sense of peace and calm that comes from honoring and cherishing those memories. The stone’s natural beauty, with its bright greens and swirling patterns, mirrors the complexity of emotions that come with remembering a loved one—beauty intertwined with pain, love mixed with loss.

At 8cm long, Kaha Mārie is a standout piece. Its size and the natural translucency of the Tangiwaī make it both visually striking and deeply personal. The swirling patterns within the stone seem to capture the movement of time and emotion, a reminder that while life continues to flow, the memory of loved ones remains ever-present.

Kaha Mārie is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a taonga, a treasure that carries a story, a memory, and the strength of a life lived and loved. It is a piece that will undoubtedly stand out wherever it is worn, not just for its beauty, but for the deep emotional connection it represents.