New Zealand Pounamu: A Revered Gemstone

What is Pounamu?

Pounamu, often called "greenstone," is New Zealand nephrite jade. Its vibrant green tones and unique translucency make it distinct, but its value is deeply tied to cultural heritage rather than just its appearance. Found primarily in the rivers of the South Island (referred to in Māori as Te Wai Pounamu), pounamu is recognized for its durability and rarity and holds immense cultural significance for Māori communities.

Origins and Discovery

Pounamu was formed under immense pressure in the Earth’s crust over millions of years. Māori discovered its beauty and strength upon their arrival in New Zealand, and it quickly became a highly prized resource. Ownership of all naturally occurring pounamu was later returned to the Ngāi Tahu iwi (tribe) in 1997 through a treaty settlement with the New Zealand government, recognizing its status as a taonga (treasured item) for the Māori people​

 

Historical Use and Significance

Historically, Māori valued pounamu not only for practical tools like adzes (toki) and fishing hooks (matau) but also for ornamental carvings such as the hei-tiki. The stone was believed to embody the mauri, or life force, of its surroundings and of its owners, making heirloom pieces spiritually potent across generations. Each piece could serve as a link between the physical and spiritual realms, often passed down as a way to honor ancestors and preserve their mana (spiritual essence)​

 

Modern Usage of Pounamu;

Today, pounamu remains a popular material for creating traditional and contemporary Māori jewelry, such as pendants, rings, and earrings. Its motifs—including the hei matau (fish hook), koru (spiral), and twist designs—are often symbolic of unity, strength, and renewal. It is gifted on important occasions, symbolizing love, respect, and connection to New Zealand’s heritage. Beyond jewelry, pounamu is also used in ceremonial objects and is sometimes given as diplomatic gifts, reinforcing its role as an emblem of New Zealand culture on the world stage​

Pounamu’s Cultural and Spiritual Importance:

For the Māori, pounamu is a living entity, a stone infused with spiritual and ancestral connections. When worn, it is thought to bring the bearer closer to the natural world, embodying the life force from the Earth Mother, Papatūānuku. Māori communities continue to treat pounamu with reverence, celebrating its beauty while respecting its sacred status. The stone’s connection to Māori cosmology ensures it remains a cherished part of New Zealand’s identity, representing resilience, unity, and continuity.

In Māori belief, pounamu pieces gain even more mana as they are passed down, embodying the wisdom and strength of ancestors—a tradition that keeps the rich narratives of Māori heritage alive today.