While Pounamu holds deep significance within te ao Māori, it may be worn by anyone who approaches it with respect, understanding and genuine appreciation for its whakapapa.

Yes you can. A big misconception with pounamu is that you cannot buy for yourself with some believing it brings bad luck. However, through research and kōrero, there is no evidence of that in Te Ao Māori or pre European practice. Historically, pounamu was traded, worn, deeply valued and passed down generations. So yes, it is totally acceptable to buy your own pounamu.

We don’t formally “bless” our pieces. However, each carver has their own process before beginning. That being karakia, entering a tau state of mind and carving with good intentions. We also acknowledge that people have their own tikanga regarding cleansing or “blessing” depending on Iwi, Hapu, Whanau and beliefs. For us we believe it’s up to the wearer or recipient.

Many Pounamu forms carry recognised meanings and can represent ideas such as growth, strength, new beginnings, spiritual guidance, or connection to others or tūpuna. While we may begin with intention or form in mind, carving is also about understanding the stone itself. Learning and knowing how it wants to be worked and allowing its natural character to guide the final piece.

Each piece of Pounamu reflects the environment in which it was formed. Over millions of years, changing minerals, pressure, and location shape the stones colours and markings. No two stones are alike, each holds the imprint of its origins within the whenua of Aotearoa.

Pounamu is found in Te Waipounamu, the South Island of Aotearoa, particularly along the West Coast. Many significant deposit spots are connected to the Arahura River and surrounding waterways, where the stone has been naturally carried and shaped overtime. This region holds deep cultural and historical importance, making Pounamu inseparable from the Whenua it comes from.