Whānau Kotahi

Pounamu, also known as New Zealand greenstone, holds immense cultural significance for the Maori people. It’s a vessel of stories, emotions, and traditions that span generations. The “Whānau Kotahi” set, which translates to “Unified Family”, is a beautiful embodiment of this sentiment. This particular set of four pendants, carved for a family of four – Mum, Dad, and their two children – is a testament to the enduring beauty and meaning of this treasured stone.

Each pendant is carved from a pale green/grey-hued pounamu, the color reminiscent of New Zealand’s misty landscapes. Dotted sporadically are unique spots of deep green and yellow, adding layers of character to each piece.

The father’s pendant is an 8cm toki. In Maori culture, the toki represents strength and courage, derived from its original use as an adze or chisel, tools that were used to shape the land and resources. Similarly, the children also wear the toki, though theirs measure 5cm, symbolizing the budding strength they will grow into. The mother’s pendant is an 8cm roimata, which translates to ‘teardrop’. It symbolizes reassurance, healing, and a deep connection to the land and its spirits.

A remarkable feature of this set is that all four pendants were carved from the same original piece of pounamu. This stone, formed millions of years ago, has always been connected. The fact that it remains connected, now in the form of individual pieces worn by family members, signifies an enduring bond, unity, and shared heritage. Just as the stone remained intact over millennia, so too does the bond of this family – a connection that is now immortalized in the form of these pendants.

Observing the transformation of pounamu from raw stone to polished pendant offers a fascinating glimpse into the process of carving. An image of the stone cut into block blanks serves as a poignant reminder of the stone’s raw potential. As we progress to a photograph of the pieces post their initial shaping, but pre the fine sanding and polishing stages, we witness the emerging elegance of the toki and roimata, each form embracing its destiny.

To own a piece of pounamu is to be a custodian of history, culture, and the artistry of the Maori people. This family, with their interconnected pendants, carries a symbol of their shared journey, their love for each other, and their respect for the land and its bounties. These pendants are not just adornments; they are stories, memories, and a tangible link to a heritage that runs deep and strong.