MADÉ Whanaungatanga Pounamu Necklace

Whanaungatanga

Connection. Kinship. Belonging.

The Whanaungatanga necklace is a piece about relationships and the ties that bind us together. In te ao Māori, whanaungatanga speaks to the importance of connection between people, land and heritage. It is the understanding that we are never truly separate, but part of something larger.

A substantial 304 stainless steel Byzantine chain forms the foundation of this design. Its intricate interlocking links create strength and continuity, each piece connected to the next. At the centre, a polished West Coast pounamu pendant hangs from a solid steel ring, grounding the piece with the deep green tones of Aotearoa.

The contrast of industrial steel and natural stone reflects the balance between the modern world and the ancient landscapes that shape us.

Each pounamu is unique, with its own colour and markings formed by the rivers that carried it. No two stones will ever be exactly the same.

A statement piece designed to carry both weight and meaning.

Specifications

Material: 304 Stainless Steel
Chain style: Byzantine
Chain width: 8mm
Chain length: 46cm
Pendant: Natural Pounamu Greenstone
Pendant size: approx. 5cm

Pounamu is sourced from river beds on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. The colour and markings will vary from light to deep green depending on the individual stone.

This piece can be customised with alternative chain lengths or styles.

For custom orders please email
jen@morganandmorgan.co.nz

Instagram
@morganandmorganmade

About Pounamu

Pounamu, often known as New Zealand greenstone, is a treasured stone of deep cultural significance to Māori. Found primarily in the rivers and mountains of Te Wai Pounamu, the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, it has been valued for centuries as a taonga representing strength, connection and enduring relationships.

Traditionally, pounamu is gifted rather than purchased for oneself, as it is believed to carry the energy and intention of the giver. When a piece is given, it becomes a symbol of respect, protection and lasting connection between people.

Each stone is formed naturally within the earth and shaped over time by river and landscape. Because of this, every piece of pounamu has its own character, colour and markings. No two are ever identical.

The pounamu used in this piece has been sourced from riverbeds on the West Coast of the South Island. The colour may range from soft, translucent greens through to deeper forest tones depending on the individual stone.

We honour the cultural significance of pounamu and present it with respect, acknowledging its place as a taonga within Aotearoa.