Moko Pounamu Mere NZ Genuine Tangiwai Pounamu - Rimu

A beautiful Mere handcrafted from an outstanding dark piece of Tangiwai Pounamu. The incredible dark brooding colour and flecks of Pyrite on this incredible carving are fantastic, and the pale green waxed cord (taura) make it a special taonga. This fabulous Mere also comes with a wooden stand.

Mere or Patu is a type of short, broad-bladed weapon in the shape of an enlarged tear drop. It was used to strike/jab an opponent in the body or the head. The Mere signifies high status and gives the owner courage and strength. It is the same design as a Patu, but the difference is a Patu is made of wood, stone, or whale bone whereas Meres are made of Greenstone Pounamu.

Tangiwai is the most ancient form of pounamu. It is bowenite rock, which is different in composition to the more common nephrite. From dark to translucent to transparent olive green to bluish-green variety of serpentine, most Tangiwai is sourced from two isolated areas at Piopiotahi (Milford Sound), Poison Bay and Anita Bay and deposits found in Nelson. Tangiwai takes its name from the tears that come from great sorrow. Tangi means "to cry" and Wai means "water", or "tears". Koko-Tangiwai, the longer name for this stone, refers to a deep sorrow that is never completely healed. There are many sad stories that tell of Tangiwai pounamu's origins.

A quality piece to be treasured and preserved for your children and children's children.

Hand Carved Mel Anderson

Size 350mm long x 92mm wide x 26mm 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.