There are dozens of unique Maori symbols, also known as Pounamu, considered very precious among the Maori people. They often make these intricate designs into pendants and necklaces carrying interesting meanings for the owner or wearer.
Maori people highly regard these designs and symbols as they can pass cultural beliefs and historical tales- plus they also carry a spiritual value. They also sometimes believe them to house the spirits of ancestors.
There are many Maori symbols, each having its meaning, and those meanings sometimes refer to Maori myths. However, amongst all New Zealand necklace bone designs, we will only talk about the five most popular and add an extra one you would have yet to hear about.
- Koru/ Spiral Bone Necklaces
Like almost all Maori necklace pendants, Koru is carved chiefly from bone or Pounamu- a unique jade in New Zealand. Substitute materials could be wood, mother of oeuvre shell, and red agate.
Koru has two meanings and times when it’s used. One being it is seen as a sign of creation, representing new life. Secondly, it is given to someone when you cross or achieve a challenging situation.
It has a spiral shape that resembles the concept that “there is ever-moving life, but you still stay the same.”
- Heart Bone Necklaces
As you may have guessed, heart designs are associated with feelings of unity and love- sometimes cohesion. These heart-shaped New Zealand necklace designs are among the recent ones in history.
You give this one to someone you care about, individuals you hold dear. Especially the selfless individuals that you need to remind of their importance in your life.
- Pikorua/ Twist Bone Necklaces
Twist-shaped necklaces are another regular among loved ones. The twist symbol represents the Unbreakable link between two individuals. It resembles the path of eternity and life in that no matter where they go, and they’ll always be back to each other.
This twist is the most commonly known among partners, friends, and family- even when one very close to you dies.
- Fish Hook Bone Necklaces
This design has been in the Maori culture for quite some time when they had just settled in New Zealand and lived off of fish. So Maori people used Fish hooks to survive and wear them for good luck, prosperity, abundance, and safe passage through the water.
Another thing about this particular design is that it originated and evolved from a standard fish hook to a highly valued piece of jewelry.
- Tiki/ Adze Necklaces
Tiki design is more of an enigma as the meaning could be more precise. Then, it was made and worn solely by chiefs to show their supremacy and power.
It symbolizes childbirth and fertility; as a reminder necklace, it is used as a protector against evil spirits, more like a good luck charm.
Someone wearing a tiki necklace is seen as one with inner strength, balance, and a clear mind.
Now, for the bonus one!!
Manaia:
According to history, this design represents “a messenger, connecting humans to gods.” It has excellent healing powers, frequently shown with three fingers symbolizing- life, birth, and death.
Conclusion
Each New Zealand necklace bone design holds loads of chi energy that helps to be the force to move us to achieve our goals. You could wear them daily and keep them under your pillow at night. This piece is a beautiful addition to your jewelry collection.