This Manaia (Guardian) pendant is crafted from Kawakawa Pounamu, showing rich dark green tones with soft natural variation across the stone. The form sweeps in a smooth, curving flow through the head and body, giving the piece a lively, expressive presence. Polished to a refined sheen, it embodies the protective qualities of the Manaia while carrying warmth and strong character.
Manaia
is a mythological creature in Māori culture and is a common motif in Māori carving and jewellery. The Manaia is usually depicted as having the head of a bird and the tail of a fish and the body of a man, though it is sometimes depicted as a bird, a serpent, or a human figure in profile. The Manaia is traditionally believed to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirits, and its symbol is used as a guardian against evil.
Kawakawa- is the most common variety of Pounamu. it comes in many shades - from strong, rich green to dark green - and often has small dark flecks, which add to its character. Named after the leaf of the Kawakawa. It is the main type used in gem purposes.
Carved by Luke Gardiner
Size 60mm long 38mm wide x 6.5mm 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.
