There’s a profound sense of tranquility, an almost sacred bond that forms when we engage in the age-old practice of carving. It’s a process where one not only shapes a physical object but also carves out a personal journey of understanding and connection. My recent endeavour, the crafting of a pounamu roimata, or a tear-shaped…
In the realm of pounamu carving, there’s a story that unfolds – a tale of transition and transformation, born from the heart of the earth and ultimately brought to life in the hands of the carver. This narrative begins with a unique stone known as the ‘flower jade’ or putiputi pounamu from the Marsden region,…
I’m absolutely stoked to unveil this creation, the Triangle Breast Plate Pounamu. I’ve spent a lot of time carving this beauty out of deep green Kawa Kawa Pounamu and stringing it together with white cord using the ring bolt lashing method. To me, a triangle isn’t just a shape with three corners and three sides….
As a lover of pounamu (New Zealand greenstone), it is always an exhilarating experience to bring a new piece to life. This toki with its light green hue intertwined with unique orange flecks, is a visual representation of the rich and diverse landscapes that New Zealand has to offer. Made from Raukaraka Pounamu, a variety…
There are few things as beautiful and meaningful as a piece of carved Niho Pounamu. This precious stone, known as New Zealand Greenstone or Jade, is renowned for its deep spiritual significance to the Māori people. Recently, I had the honor of creating a unique Niho Pounamu pendant for a special individual, a piece that…
There is a unique beauty in heirlooms, especially those that are crafted with heart and carry symbolic weight. They’re not just objects, but living vessels that carry stories, traditions, and meanings, passed down through generations. Today, I want to take you on a journey to discover the exquisite beauty and profound symbolism of a Hei…
I’m thrilled to share with you my latest carving, a piece that has been a labor of love over the past few months. It’s a Niho, or ‘tooth’, and it’s a large one, carved from the stunningly beautiful Raukaraka Pounamu, or New Zealand greenstone. The Niho design is a traditional Māori symbol, often associated with…
I have the immense pleasure of sharing a story that is as speical as it is meaningful. It is the tale of a Taonga Pounamu, carved from the heart of South Westland, New Zealand, and carved into a symbol that carries the weight of centuries-old wisdom – the Three Baskets of Knowledge. This unique piece…
Gorgeous Southwestland Pounamu Roimata. This has a mix of colours an shades in it. The roimata is some of my favourite shapes to carve. The curves are very satisfying when you get them right. Pounamu, or New Zealand greenstone, is a cherished gemstone often used in carving significant items, with Roimata representing a teardrop shape….
This 5cm toki whao features a hidden hole design for the neck cord, crafted from Pounamu sourced from the sacred Arahura River. The dimensions of the toki whao have been carefully considered, resulting in a balanced and visually striking piece. This toki whao is not only a visually stunning work of art but also holds…