New Zealand Jade
New Zealand Jade, also known as Greenstone and called Pounamu by the Māori, is pret-ty doggone special. I always liked Jade and appreciated it’s metaphysical properties, but when I saw the craftsmanship and creativity of these pieces in New Zealand, I went crazy! Wild, because I was never drawn to Jade before.
When we were in Rotorua at the Marae inside the Wharenui with the Te Arawa tribe, I was immediately struck by the magnificent carved pieces all the elders wore as well as our tour guides. Unique, unique, unique! I was told that you had to be given these pieces, they could not buy them for themselves.
Happily for me, there were gift shops where I could buy them!
Sacred Pieces with Significant Meaning
New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world that does not mine their Jade. They get their Jade from fossicking (searching for) the gemstone in rivers and glacial valleys. It is sustainably and ethically sourced by the Ngāi Tahu, a South Island tribe. They were vested with ownership of all Jade (Pounamu) in the 1990’s.
It is found mainly on the West Coast, Fiordland, western Southland and the Nelson district. Jade can range in color from light green to a dark emerald and the markings vary based on the river source. It is valued as sacred by the Māori as they believe it can enhance the wearer’s life.
In addition, they believe Pounamu connects one to their Ancestors as it embodies their Spirits. Pounamu is considered a tāonga (treasure) and is protected by the gods (ngā atua). The Māori have passed down these tāongas for generations.
A Bit More History
As I told you earlier, New Zealand Jade is only found on the South Island which the Māori call Te Wai Pounamu, the (land of) Greenstone Water. I am even more enamored with this gemstone the more I learn of it. I am so Grateful to have two pieces that were blessed by one of the Elders of the Te Arawa tribe.
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