Toki Moana – A Symbol of Adventure and Connection to Nature

For a Tahitian man passionate about the outdoors and the beauty of his country’s atolls, I crafted a custom Toki, named Toki Moana, while a simple name it is heavy with meaning. This piece was designed to reflect his adventurous spirit and love for nature’s rugged beauty, while also being practical and comfortable for daily wear during his explorations.

The Toki, or adze, is a traditional Māori tool once used for carving and shaping. Over time, it has become a symbol of strength, determination, and resourcefulness, making it an ideal choice for someone who embodies these qualities in their life and adventures.

For this piece, we selected a stunning piece of Kawakawa Pounamu, with a deep green hue that fades into a foamy pale green rind and the natural brown rough outer edge of the stone. The exposed rind and outer layer give the piece a rugged, organic beauty, connecting it directly to the earth and the rawness of nature.

The Toki is small and slender, designed to sit comfortably under his shirt as he ventures through the atolls, exploring and living in harmony with his surroundings.

To complete the taonga, I used a harakeke coloured green cord for the lashing, adding a natural and earthy element that ties the piece together. The green complements the Pounamu beautifully and reinforces the connection to the land and environment.

The name Toki Moana translates to “Adze of the Ocean.” It symbolises not only the wearer’s connection to the sea and the atolls of his homeland but also the qualities of strength and adaptability that are vital for living in harmony with nature. This piece is a perfect reflection of his adventurous lifestyle and his love for the rugged beauty of the outdoors.

Toki Moana is more than just a piece of jewellery—it’s a talisman, a symbol of the wearer’s connection to his culture, his environment, and his personal journey. It was an honour to create something so meaningful and unique for him.