This Kouma (Breastplate) is hand carved from Kahurangi Pounamu, showing its characteristic clarity and vibrant green tone with natural variations and grain. Along with a notched lower edge, a flowing double Koru is carved around the centre of the piece, adding movement and strong visual depth to the form, with a notched . Finished with a satin polish, it’s a distinctive pendant with refined balance, presence, and beautifully crafted detail.
Kouma - Breastplate- sits close to the heart, symbolising protection, inner strength, and resilience. Traditionally, it represents the sternum or breastbone, a core structure of the body that provides support and endurance. This taonga serves as a reminder of the wearer’s strength—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Wearing a Kouma connects a person to their ancestors, carrying forward their mana and wisdom. It is a symbol of courage and the ability to face life’s challenges with determination. The coolness of the stone against the skin reinforces a deep connection to Papatūānuku, grounding the wearer in their journey.
Koru- The Maori word for bright or loop. It refers to the shoots of the silver fern. The circular movement to the inner core refers to "going back to the beginnings". The unfurling frond itself 700is symbolic for new life, new beginnings, hope, personal growth, purity nurturing, a new phase in life, the spirit of rejuvenation and peace.
Kahurangi- Genuine West Coast Greenstone from the Marsden, West Coast area. Kahurangi is the rarest variety of pounamu. It is highly translucent and often comes in vivid shades of green. Small, feather-like markings in the stone can give a cloud effect – although to be classed as Kahurangi, this effect must not reduce the stone’s clarity. The word Kahurangi also indicates nobility and refers to precious jewels and held in high esteem by Māori.
Hand Carved by Luke Leaf
Size 78mm long x 45mm wide x 7.5mm thick
This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos. There may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
