Hand Made New Zealand Pounamu/Greenstone Necklace Ref: 0204

About Pounamu

Pounamu (commonly known as greenstone or New Zealand jade) is an incredibly durable, deeply sacred stone found only in the South Island of New Zealand. Treasured by Māori as taonga (cultural treasures), it was historically used to make tools and weapons and is now primarily carved into symbolic jewelry and pendants.

Cultural Significance

• Spiritual Connection: Pounamu is believed to carry its own mauri (life force), which grows stronger as it absorbs the natural oils from your skin and is passed down through generations.
• Tradition of Gifting: While it is perfectly acceptable to buy one for yourself, pounamu is classically given as a gift to mark important milestones, honour relationships, or seal agreements.

Common Carving Meanings

• Hei Matau (Fish Hook): Symbolizes strength, prosperity, abundance, and safe travel over water.
• Koru (Spiral): Represents new beginnings, growth, peace, and harmony.
• Tiki (Human Figure): Represents good luck, fertility, and a connection to ancestors.
• Toki (Adze): Symbolizes strength, courage, authority, and control.

Pounamu vs. Greenstone vs. Jade — What's the Difference?

When shopping for New Zealand's famous green rock, you will see three terms used interchangeably. While they often describe the exact same piece of jewelry, they carry very different meanings, origins, and cultural weight.

1. Pounamu

This is the traditional Māori name for the stone and the most respectful, accurate, and culturally significant term. Under New Zealand law, the word Pounamu strictly refers to stones naturally found in the South Island of New Zealand (Te Waipounamu). If a stone is labeled "Pounamu," it is a culturally recognized taonga (treasure) ethically sourced from New Zealand.

2. Greenstone

A generic, historical term coined by European settlers. When Captain Cook and early European explorers arrived in New Zealand in the 1700s, they simply called it "green stone." Today it is a popular colloquial nickname, but because it is a generic term, it is sometimes used loosely to describe green rocks that did not actually come from New Zealand.

3. Jade

The international geological and gemmological classification. Scientifically, the world has two types of true jade: Nephrite and Jadeite. New Zealand Pounamu is almost entirely made of Nephrite Jade. Calling it "Jade" connects the stone to a global audience, however "Jade" can come from anywhere in the world (Canada, China, Russia). New Zealand Pounamu is a highly specific, rare type of Nephrite Jade.

Quick Summary

• All Pounamu is technically Nephrite Jade and can be called Greenstone.
• Not all Jade or Greenstone is Pounamu — they can come from overseas.

Our Promise: Everything sold in our store is authentic New Zealand Pounamu — sustainably and legally harvested from the rivers of the South Island, carrying the true spirit and heritage of Aotearoa. 

Ref: 0204 (For my use only)