Greenstone pendants: a common sight in New Zealand

Upon arriving in New Zealand, you’ll immediately notice the greenstone (known as pounamu in Māori) pendants, frequently worn on leather necklaces by both locals and tourists alike.

These pendants rank among the most sought-after souvenirs, and it’s nearly a rite of passage for visitors to purchase one early in their trip and wear it with pride as they explore the country. However, take a closer look, and you’ll realize that not all pounamu is created equal.

When I was a teenager, my father, who is originally from New Zealand, gifted me a pounamu hei-tiki after his visit back home. I must admit, I didn’t fully understand its significance; I simply recognized it as an iconic Māori design. I cherished its texture and wore it on a leather necklace for years, including in my first adult passport photo.

I later learned that the tiki symbolizes fertility, so when I decided to try for a baby, I wore it again. And yes, it worked!

Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting a pounamu souvenir (the debate about whether it’s unlucky to buy one for yourself continues). We’ll discuss certificates of authenticity and the importance of the four main designs you’ll encounter, enabling you to choose a quintessential New Zealand gift infused with mana (power).

What’s the distinction between greenstone, jade, and pounamu?

Greenstone, often called jade, is a semiprecious gemstone that varies in color from a pale, cloudy green to a rich emerald. (Two different minerals are marketed as “jade”—jadeite and nephrite. Although they share similar physical characteristics, nephrite is more common and thus less valuable than jadeite).

Greenstone is an exceptionally durable material that can be shaped into various items, ranging from weapons and tools to beautiful jewelry. Many cultures also attribute healing properties to it.

The pounamu found in New Zealand is sourced specifically from the west coast of the South Island, which is home to the Ngāi Tahu iwi (community). In 1997, the New Zealand government returned ownership and guardianship rights (kaitiaki in Māori) of pounamu to Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, the elected council of the Ngāi Tahu people.

As a result, the Ngāi Tahu iwi are tasked with the sustainable management of pounamu in New Zealand, ensuring the protection and care of the rivers from which it is sourced, such as the Arahura River.

Indeed, the southwestern region known as Te Wāhipounamu (“the place of pounamu”) is World Heritage–listed for being the largest and least altered segment of New Zealand's natural ecosystem, largely thanks to its First Nations inhabitants.

What factors contribute to the varying prices of pounamu?

Like any gemstone, the worth of each pounamu piece is influenced by its visual appeal and rarity. Māori categorize pounamu based on color, markings, and translucency. The four primary types are inanga, kahurangi, kawakawa, and tangiwai.

Kahurangi pounamu is the most elusive of New Zealand greenstone, exhibiting high translucency and devoid of dark spots or imperfections. Inanga pounamu, named after a freshwater fish, typically appears as an opaque grey-green. Tangiwai is more translucent but also more fragile, making it challenging to shape. The more prevalent kawakawa pounamu is available in various shades of green and is easier to work with.

What steps can I take to ensure I am buying genuine New Zealand pounamu?

If you're on a tight budget, you might be surprised by the price gap between fake imported greenstone and authentic pieces.

Some of the budget pounamu available in souvenir shops may be carved in New Zealand, but they often use raw materials sourced from abroad. Other inexpensive items are mass-produced in different countries and marketed to unsuspecting tourists as local products.

To support traditional artisans and bring home a souvenir that genuinely resonates with Māori culture, you should set aside some of your budget and seek items with Ngāi Tahu certification. A simple design will typically range from NZ$100 to NZ$200 (USD$62 to USD$125), while a more intricate piece can reach up to NZ$600 (almost USD$400), depending on the stone's quality.

A traceability code provides insights into the whakapapa (genealogy) of your stone and details about the artisan who crafted it. For an even richer pounamu experience, visit the studios and jewelers on the South Island to speak directly with the craftsmen.

What influences the specific styles in which some pounamu pieces are carved?

In addition to their environmental stewardship, the Ngāi Tahu iwi proudly uphold the ancient art of pounamu carving, with artisans deeply appreciating the spiritual and aesthetic qualities of the stones they shape.

Lee-Roy Mullings, from Ngāti Kahungunu iwi, has dedicated over 30 years to the Arrowtown Stonework workshop. He shares, 'Before I begin carving, I honor the stone's cultural significance, connecting with its distinct grain, clarity, and hue. This process transcends mere shaping; it's a transformation imbued with meaning and rooted in Māori tradition.'

What significance do the main designs of pounamu pendants hold?

Across New Zealand, you’ll encounter four primary designs for sale, often crafted from stone, shell, or bone.

The toki serves as a practical cutting tool, akin to a small axe, embodying wisdom, strength, and determination. While it can be worn by anyone, it has traditionally adorned elders. The koru, representing new beginnings and growth, is inspired by an unfurling fern. The hei matau, shaped like a fishhook, signifies a connection to the ocean and is believed to bring good fortune and safe travels. Lastly, the hei-tiki resembles a human embryo and is often associated with fertility, although its meaning can vary based on context.

Is it possible to find pounamu in its natural habitat?

While anyone can scour the West Coast of the South Island for pounamu pebbles, searching for the gemstone within rivers is prohibited.

In a disheartening twist, as pounamu's value has risen, so too has the incidence of theft from remote areas. This crime is recognized as spiritually offensive to the Ngāi Tahu and causes economic harm to the community.

To delve deeper into the history and significance of pounamu, consider joining a 'fossicking' (prospecting) tour led by certified Ngāi Tahu guides. Recommended options include Arahura Greenstone Tours and Te Rua & Sons Pounamu Trails.

If you're interested in crafting your own pounamu (or working with bone or shells), inquire about classes offered by Bonz N Stonz, a boutique artist studio located in Hokitika on New Zealand’s West Coast.

Finally, by ensuring you purchase an authentic piece of pounamu, you can wear it with pride, knowing you are supporting the preservation of Māori cultural heritage while bringing home a beautiful and genuine memento from your travels in New Zealand.