Carving, at its core, is an intimate act of transformation and storytelling. A recent visitor to our workshop brought in two unique stones she had unearthed while fossicking. These stones, carrying the whispers of the land, have now been shaped into pendants – not just ornaments, but symbols of connection and memory. The crafting of…
The huia, a now-extinct bird that was native to New Zealand, is remembered for its striking plumage and distinctive tail feathers. In Maori culture, the huia feather is a symbol of nobility, worn traditionally by high-ranking individuals. It is a physical representation of leadership and mana (prestige). Capturing this significance, an 11cm black jade carving…
Discover the enchanting beauty of the Roimata pendant, a treasure from the heart of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Crafted from Pounamu, also known as greenstone or New Zealand jade, this pendant is not just a piece of jewelry but a taonga, a cherished possession with deep cultural significance. The Roimata shape, characterized by its elongated form,…
Creating a meaningful connection with the essence of Aotearoa through art and taonga is a journey well represented by this exquisite set of Pounamu toki and earrings. Each piece holds a story, a spirit, and a cultural significance that transcends its physical beauty. The toki, measuring about 5cm, is a traditional Maori carving shape that…
The toki, or adze, is a traditional Maori tool that once played a vital role in the daily life of Maori communities. Carved from the revered greenstone, the toki now serves as a pendant, offering not only a visual connection to the past but also a symbolic representation of power, wisdom, and authority. The toki…
In the realm of Pounamu, each piece is not just a work of art but a narrative sculpted into stone, carrying the whispers of Aotearoa’s majestic landscape and the cultural legacy of its people. Today, we delve into the story behind a Toki pendant, a masterpiece crafted from the revered Pounamu. The carving process is…
In the hands of a carver, Pounamu is transformed into more than just an adornment; it becomes a narrative etched in stone, a tangible representation of family bonds and shared stories. This narrative is told through the ‘Whānau Tūhono’ set, a collection of Pounamu pendants specially carved for a family, embodying their unity and individual…
In the realm of wearable art, the power and beauty of simplicity often speak volumes. The Niho pendant, carved from the Akaroa Harbour’s basalt, is a testament to this timeless truth. In this piece, we explore a pendant that is not only a stunning accessory but also a bearer of profound cultural significance and a…
In the heart of Aotearoa, amidst the lush landscapes of Te Wai Pounamu – the South Island, a remarkable stone whispers the stories of the land. Pounamu, New Zealand’s treasured greenstone, has found its form in a stunning set of niho (tooth) pendants, carved by the hands of Campbell from Campbell Carving. Each piece, hailing…
This set of koru pendants, named ‘Arohanui,’ captures a son’s love for his mother. Each koru, from the same piece of hapopo pounamu, signifies their life-long bond. The koru represents new beginnings, peace, and personal growth. This set, when joined, forms a mutual embrace, showing a shared journey of a mother and son. The pendants…