Wedding Toki
























When one beholds a handcrafted piece of pounamu, also known as New Zealand jade or greenstone, its depth, history, and cultural significance are immediately evident. Named “Whakapapa Arohanui,” this particular set embodies more than just the majestic aura of Raukaraka pounamu and its vivid hues of orange, yellow, and pale green. “Whakapapa Arohanui” translates to…
This was a cool challenge, and came up great. The idea was to create a set for a man and his wife that were interconnected. He really wanted two pieces with toki and pikorua as the symbols. Having the pikorua symbol flow between them as well as having the pieces made from the same pounamu…
This is what is sounds like, a toki with a pikorua carved into it. The pikorua is on the back. The 5 notches on the sides are to represent whanau members. It is interesting to see some of the process to carve the pikorua into this toki.
This set of three Toki is called Tai Ora, meaning The Living Tides. It symbolises the constant movement of the ocean and the unbreakable connection between a father and his sons, no matter the distance. Each Toki is carved from the same piece of Pounamu, a physical representation of their bond. The waves carved into…
Deep green Kawa Kawa Pounamu toki, with koru in the negative space.
This pounamu is to represent the man of the whanau. To support the Rangatiratanga – Leadership and Mana that he holds in this role. A toki traditionally represents leadership, authority, and mana. This is very appropriate for the kaupapa of this pendant. Made for one man in particular. The slice of pounamu that was chosen…