Heart of the Stone – Pounamu Toki

Description

I carved this 65 mm pounamu toki in a classic chisel form, drawing on the shape of the traditional adze. The toki represents strength, determination and perseverance, making it a meaningful taonga for someone facing a challenge, taking on responsibility or working towards a goal.

The stone has a striking variation in colour. In one lower corner, the heart of the pounamu shows as a rich, translucent kawakawa green. Across the rest of the toki, stone closer to the outer edge or rind of the boulder takes on creamy, milky, pale inanga-like tones. Both colours belong to the same piece of pounamu, showing its natural character from the interior towards the surface.

The title, Heart of the Stone, reflects that glimpse of deep green within the paler stone. It also connects with the meaning of the toki: the inner strength we draw on when persistence and resolve are needed.

Suspended from a black cord, this one-of-a-kind toki comes ready to wear. It can be worn as a personal reminder of strength or gifted to acknowledge those qualities in someone important.

Size: 65mm

Material: Inanga/Kawakawa Pounamu/Nephrite Jade

Location: Hokitika

Carver: Campbell Potter