What is the New Zealand Greenstone Jade?
New Zealand’s Pounamu is often used as pendants for a necklace. This Greenstone, or jade, is found exclusively in the South Island of New Zealand. For the Maori it is considered a precious stone for centuries. They have deeply embedded this stone in their culture and spiritual practices. Let’s zoom in and explore the cultural and spiritual significance of New Zealand’s most sought-after stone.
History of Pounamu
The Maori have been using Pounamu for more than 800 years. It is regarded as a taonga, or a treasure, and is considered sacred. The Jade can be found in riverbeds if you know where to look. The Maori believe the jade have been formed by the tears of the god Tāwhirimātea. According to Maori mythology, Tāwhirimātea wept when he saw the beauty of the earth and his tears formed the rivers that carry the Pounamu to the sea.
Pounamu is not only used for the famous necklace pendants. The jade is also used for weapons and tools. Greenstone is also used in spiritual practices and was believed to have healing properties. The Maori would carry small pieces of Pounamu with them as a symbol of their connection to the land and their ancestors.
Today, Pounamu continues to be an important part of Maori culture. It is often used in traditional carvings and jewelry. Greenstone is gifted as a sign of respect and friendship. The Maori believe that Pounamu is a living stone and that it should be treated with the utmost care and respect.
Cultural Significance in New Zealand
New Zealand pounamu is deeply embedded in the culture of New Zealand. It is a symbol of the country’s unique heritage. At international event it is used to represent New Zealand. Many New Zealand artists use Pounamu in their contemporary art and design.
New Zealand’s pounamu is an important part of the tourism industry as many tourist purchase a greenstone necklace. Visitors from around the world come to New Zealand to see the stone and learn about its cultural significance. Many tourists try to find pounamu in one of the rivers as the stone is a popular gift to take home to friends and family.
Spiritual Significance
New Zealand Pounamu is believed to have powerful spiritual properties. The Maori believe that the stone can help to balance energy and bring about a sense of calm and tranquility. It is also believed to have healing properties and can be used to treat a variety of ailments.
In Maori spirituality, Pounamu is often used in ceremonies and rituals. The stone is believed to have a connection to the spiritual realm and is used as a tool for communicating with ancestors and the gods. It is also believed to have protective qualities and can be used to ward off negative energy.
How to find Pounamu Greenstone?
Pounamu jade can be found exclusively in the South Island of New Zealand. The stone is often found in riverbeds, where it has been carried by the flowing water over time. The best places to search for Pounamu are in areas where rivers and streams flow through rugged, mountainous terrain. Some of the most popular areas for Pounamu hunting include the West Coast, Fiordland, and the Southland region.
It is important to note that Pounamu is a taonga, or a treasure, that is highly valued by the Maori people. As such, it is important to obtain permission before searching for Pounamu on private land or in areas of cultural significance. It is also important to treat the stone with respect and care, as it is considered to be a living stone by the Maori people.
Why is New Zealand Pounamu so Sought-After?
New Zealand pounamu is not only highly sought-after around the world because of the greenstone necklace. It is sought-after for its beauty and cultural significance. The stone is rare and can only be found in New Zealand, which makes it even more valuable. The Maori people have been using Pounamu for centuries, and the stone has become synonymous with their culture and spiritual practices.
In addition to its cultural significance, Pounamu is also highly valued for its physical properties. The stone is extremely hard and durable, which makes it ideal for use in jewelry and carvings. It is also highly polished and has a beautiful, deep green color that is highly prized by collectors.
Greenstone Necklace
New Zealand Pounamu necklaces and jewelry are highly sought after for their beauty and cultural significance. Pounamu necklaces and jewelry are often made by Maori artisans who use traditional carving techniques to create intricate designs. These designs often incorporate Maori symbols and motifs that have deep spiritual meaning. Pounamu necklaces and jewelry are highly prized by collectors and are often considered to be valuable investments. Whether worn as a fashion accessory or as a symbol of cultural heritage, Pounamu necklaces and jewelry are truly one-of-a-kind pieces that are sure to be treasured for generations to come.
Learn more about Maori symbols us for necklaces
