This large 11.5cm (4 3/8') Ngai Tahu Greenstone Toki Necklace is a whopper!
Long, wide, thick, it's the perfect statement piece.
And it is made from genuine Ngai Tahau pounamu, so it comes with a certificate of authenticity. The code on the certificate then allows you to access a website where you can read about the stone used, the artisans, and the stone's origins.
The stone used for the pictured Toki is called Hapopo. Its colour ranges from medium green to a dark forest green, and it has a characteristic mottled appearance. Because of the colour range, the toki you receive may be different in shade and mottling to the one photographed. The Hapopo name originates from Ka Umu o Hapopo (Big Bay), located in South Westland.
Other stone used is Kawakawa, a dark pounamu not particularly translucent. That is the stone used in the photo of the polished piece.
We may also get pieces made from the rare Kahurangi greenstone. Please note that we never know what we will get from the carvers, but you are welcome to ask for photos of what is available, before you purchase.
The hei toki (adze necklace) is a symbol of power, wisdom and authority, as it was traditionally worn by elders.
The South Island of New Zealand (Maori name Te Waipounamu - the Greenstone Isle), is the only place where NZ greenstone (pounamu) is found. The stone is a taonga (treasure) to Ngai Tahu, and in particular the people of Te Tai o Poutini, the West Coast of the South Island, where most greenstone is found and carved.
The stone began its journey millions of years ago, as the mountains of Te Waipounamu formed over time, pushing narrow bands of pounamu filled earth to the surface. From here, the movement of rivers and glaciers broke pieces of pounamu away from its host rock.
Wear a piece of nature from the South Island of New Zealand. Proudly made in New Zealand, and shipped worldwide.
Purchase the necklace only or the necklace plus a flax kete bag to keep it in.
