Is it bad luck to buy yourself greenstone?

Certain pieces of greenstone were actually recognized as having their own spirits, which chose their wearer, so carving or taking one for yourself was extremely bad luck as it would anger the spirit or guardian of the jade.” Today however, it is increasingly common to purchase a piece for yourself.

How do you know if pounamu is real?

Keep an eye out for a stone that’s dark green in colour. Also look for yellow and orange flecks or pearly white tones. Raukaraka pounamu, for example, takes its name from the yellowish tinges found in the leaves of the karaka tree.

What does the barcode on a Waewae pounamu mean?

Our membership in this programmes means all Waewae Pounamu pieces carry a unique traceability barcode. When entered online this code identifies the origin and history of the carving, the system guaranteeing the stone was obtained by rightful means and treated with appropriate cultural care. Go to Ngāi Tahu Pounamu to trace your piece.

Where can I buy pounamu in New Zealand?

This is why we’re proud to only buy genuine New Zealand Pounamu for our carvings. Each of our local artisans is licensed by the Ngāi Tahu Pounamu authentication scheme. This is the only programme in the world that provides legitimate, New Zealand-sourced greenstone to carvers.

Who are the Ngai Tahu whanau of pounamu?

Ngāi Tahu whānau are the traditional kaitiaki (intergenerational guardians) of Pounamu in their regions, with exclusive ownership and rights to market Pounamu in the Ngāi Tahu takiwā (traditional area) using the unique Ngāi Tahu authentication system. https://www.ngaitahupounamu.com

Who is Garth Wilson Jade and pounamu trader?

My name is Garth Wilson. My family connections with carving pounamu (Jade, greenstone) go back hundreds of years to the Maori tribes Ngati Mahaki and Ngati Waewae who were the original traders of pounamu (Jade) here on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.