Pounamu Jewellery is hand crafted from the South Island of New Zealand and represents a unique style and craftsmanship. It was the forerunner of many of the designs and styles that are currently available today. Traditionally the pounamu was used to signify many things from strength, courage, fertility and success. The stones used were mostly greenstone and other volcanic stone, which has been used by Maori for building for hundreds of years. In modern times the stones used for carving pounamu are hand carved to give each piece of jewellery a personal style.
|
New Zealand’s Best Jewellery – Pounamu Jewellery
Pounamu Jewellery is hand crafted from the South Island of New Zealand and represents a unique style and craftsmanship. It was the forerunner of many of the designs and styles that are currently available today. Traditionally the pounamu was used to signify many things from strength, courage, fertility and success. The stones used were mostly greenstone and other volcanic stone, which has been used by Maori for building for hundreds of years. In modern times the stones used for carving pounamu are hand carved to give each piece of jewellery a personal style.
These beautiful pieces are created from the perfect mix of modern and traditional oriental techniques. The pounamu is carved from natural greenstone, with a variety of designs carved in and on each stone. A special cutting method is used to ensure that the stone has a high polish and even shine. Some of the most popular designs include the ever-present sun and moon, a kangaroo tail, karaka, parrot and rooster, stylized peacocks and birds and lots more.
Pounamu Jewellery is a great example of Maori jewelry, which has been brought back to modern design. Many of the pounamu pieces can be purchased at stores in New Zealand, but you may also be able to find some online. If you like the look of pounamu but cannot travel out of New Zealand, there are a wide variety of ready made pounamu rings available. Some of these rings are quite unique as they incorporate both karaka and toki elements of Maori design. These rings are very beautiful and will really enhance any outfit.
