Did you know not all New Zealand Pounamu is Jade?
One of the beautiful things about Pounamu is that no two stones are ever quite the same. Each has its own colour, natural markings and story that began deep within the whenua of Aotearoa.
But did you know Pounamu isn't all made from the same type of stone?
Nephrite Jade is the most common form of Pounamu. Known for its incredible strength and natural beauty, it comes in many different shades and patterns, including Kawakawa, Īnanga, Kōkopu and Raukaraka.
Bowenite (Tangiwai) is a distinct form of Pounamu within the serpentine mineral family. It's generally softer than nephrite and often has a beautiful translucent, almost glass-like appearance.
Serpentine is a wider family of minerals. Certain New Zealand serpentines are also recognised as Pounamu, although not every green serpentine stone is Pounamu.
For Māori, Pounamu has long been treasured for far more than its appearance. It carries cultural significance, connection to the whenua and stories passed down through generations.
Here at Honeys Greenstone, we love sharing the beauty and knowledge behind these special stones.
Because understanding the Pounamu you choose makes your taonga that much more meaningful.
