That’s a beauty of a piece — laburnum’s contrast between the warm golden sapwood and deep chocolate heartwood makes it one of those “quiet showstoppers.” Here’s your full hybrid-style Etsy description, complete with the cultural, symbolic, and material background that fits the rest of your collection:
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Laburnum Wood Hei Toki (Adze) Pendant – Handcarved Wooden Talisman of Strength, Balance & Ancestral Craft
This handcarved Hei Toki pendant is shaped from sustainably sourced laburnum wood — a tree known for its striking contrast of golden sapwood and dark, chocolate-brown heartwood. Each piece is individually carved and finished to bring out the natural grain and luster, creating a tactile pendant that speaks of earth, craft, and quiet strength.
The Hei Toki design originates from the Māori adze blade, traditionally worn as a symbol of wisdom, skill, and authority. In modern spiritual practice, it embodies balance — the ability to shape one’s world with calm intention and resilience.
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Material & Process
Each pendant is hand-carved from laburnum offcuts, giving new life to timber that might otherwise be discarded. The wood is polished to a soft sheen and sealed with a natural wax blend, bringing out its rich tonal depth and smooth finish.
• Wood: Laburnum (Laburnum anagyroides)
• Origin: Reclaimed from local craft offcuts
• Finish: Coconut oil and beeswax polish (vegan wax option available)
• Cord: Waxed, adjustable polyester cord
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Symbolism & Spirit
In Māori tradition, the Hei Toki represents strength, determination, and the authority of craftsmanship — the spiritual blade that shapes both wood and destiny.
Laburnum, known historically as the “golden rain tree,” has long symbolised transformation and enlightenment, its dual tones reflecting harmony between light and shadow. When worn as a pendant, it becomes a reminder of perseverance through contrast — a talisman for makers, thinkers, and those walking between worlds.
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Science & Sustainability
• Laburnum Density: ~700 kg/m³
• Hardness (Janka): ~4,200 N
• Grain: Fine and smooth, with natural oils that polish beautifully
• Sustainability: Reclaimed and hand-finished, zero waste process
Laburnum is not a commercial timber; its toxicity makes it unsuitable for mass production but perfect for small, mindful craftwork. Each carving is handled with care to ensure safe and stable finish, sealed naturally and polished by hand.
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Details & Features
• Handcarved laburnum wood Hei Toki pendant
• Symbol of wisdom, craftsmanship, and balance
• Polished and wax-finished for a smooth, natural feel
• Ethically sourced, reclaimed wood
• Adjustable cord for comfort
• Perfect for daily wear, meditation, or gifting
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Care
Avoid soaking or exposing to direct sunlight for long periods. If the finish dulls, buff gently with a soft cloth or apply a touch of beeswax polish to restore its sheen.
