Art & Craftsmanship
Appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and artistic expression in Pounamu creations, reflecting the deep connection to Māori artistry.
Moko Pounamu Knowledge Library
We believe that gifting pounamu is a profound act, one that deserves to be supported by deep knowledge, genuine care, and absolute integrity. This belief is the foundation of our business, which is built on three core pillars that guide every interaction, both in our Christchurch shop and across the globe.
Owen Mapp is a highly regarded bone carver from Aotearoa New Zealand. At Moko Pounamu we are privileged to have some of Owen’s collection of pieces for sale in our retail shop and online.
We welcome anyone who would like to come in to view the collection in person.
Choosing a piece of pounamu as a gift for a valued customer, acknowledging the achievements of a staff member or rewarding members of your team is a powerful choice.
Pounamu comes in many shades and varieties. In this blog post we introduce you to all of the shades we work with, their names, where they usually come from and their characteristics. Read on.
In our latest blog, we explore the origins of hei toki, its profound meaning, and the variations crafted by our skilled artisan carvers.
For many, wearing a manaia is not just about putting on a piece of jewellery—it is about carrying a piece of spiritual protection and cultural heritage with them.
In New Zealand, the shepherd's whistle has stood the test of time as a crucial instrument in controlling sheepdogs, the indispensable partners of any kiwi shepherd or shepherdess.
The Toki is a symbol of courage, strength, determination and authority, given as a gift to represent these things, and to honour the recipients' mana (pride).
Stories from Ben Brown about his experiences growing up with weaving harakeke (flax) and his mother teaching him the techniques used by Māori in Aotearoa.
Discovering the meaning of the intricate shapes and designs incorporated into Māori carving provides insight into the history of Aotearoa. Ben Brown shares his knowledge with us.
Ben Brown shares more about the various design elements incorporated into Māori carving and their meanings. Find out more.
Hei tiki are multifaceted taonga. A hei tiki is an image carved in human form that is worn suspended around the neck as a pendant. Moko Pounamu also sells Tiki sculptures.
What does the koru represent and why is it relevant today?
The underlying story of harakeke is suggested in the name of the juvenile plant; the seedling, which is called Te Awhi Rito. Rito is the new shoot. Te Awhi - the supporting embrace.
Toi Whakairo - the carving arts - can be observed in virtually every aspect of traditional Māori society and arrangement adorning both the great and the mundane with symbolism, meaning and spiritual utility.
The art of stone carving is passed down between generations. “As a carver, I recognize that once I work the stone, I become part of its journey and evolution through time. What I create will survive well beyond me.”
Its origins as a semi-precious stone are similar to pounamu in the way that it was formed - under tremendous pressure and extreme heat many many years ago - but its makeup of different types of stone is what makes it unique. A combination of kyanite (blue), fuchsite (green) and quartz (white) give this stone its turquoise appearance, with bands of iridescence and glitter from the mica in the quartz. These features are near impossible to capture in photographs. Aotea stone is regarded as a stone that carries a feminine energy. This is for a couple of reasons. It’s a softer stone than pounamu and that’s evident when it’s held and felt in one’s fingers. It’s true that the feel of the stone is starkly different to that of pounamu which is harder and intrinsically carries a masculine and powerful energy. The stone’s characteristics speak for this feminine energy too. According to gemologists and those who have an understanding of precious gemstones’ properties, kyanite stimulates intuition and personal truth. Fuchsite is said to support a sense of self-worth. And quartz is said to absorb and regulate energy. For those in tune with stones’ spiritual and healing powers, this is a pretty special one.
