Kaha Wahine

I want to share a pounamu pendant that holds a story close to my heart. It’s a piece I call “Kaha Wahine,” which translates to “Strong Woman” in Te Reo Māori. The name wasn’t chosen lightly. This pounamu was commissioned by a remarkable woman who has battled and emerged stronger from breast cancer.

The pounamu itself is a deep green kawakawa, a variety known for its resilience and enduring spirit. It wasn’t a smooth, flawless stone. Instead, it was a rough cobble, marked with lumps and scars – a perfect reflection of the journey my client had bravely undertaken.

Her vision for the pendant was powerful. She wanted it to embody the physical and emotional transformation she’d experienced. The uneven surface of the stone mirrored the changes in her own body, a constant reminder of her fight. But within those imperfections resided immense strength, a “Kaha Wahine” spirit that had seen her through.

To further emphasize the concept of strength, I incorporated a black ring bolt lashing at the top. This detail symbolized the challenges she’d overcome, the battles fought and won. Finally, a four-braid waxed cord was chosen for the necklace, representing the unwavering support system that had carried her through this journey.

“Kaha Wahine” is more than just a pendant; it’s a symbol of courage, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit that resides within all strong women. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the scars, and strength emerges from the toughest battles.

This pounamu is a deeply personal piece, a constant companion for a Kaha Wahine who has redefined strength. It’s a privilege to create pieces that hold such profound meaning, and I am grateful to my client for sharing her story.

Do you have a story you’d like captured in pounamu? Perhaps your own journey of strength, or a gift to celebrate a Kaha Wahine in your life? Let’s discuss how I can create a unique pounamu pendant that reflects your personal narrative.