New Zealand roimata tear drop Pounamu greenstone serpentine pendant.

Measurements,
Length - 8cm
Bottom width -2.2cm
Top width - 1.1cm
Depth - 0.5cm
Weight - 21 grams

New Zealand Pounamu Greenstone Serpentine Roimata Tear Drop Pendant with Rainbow Pāua Abalone Shell Accents
Embrace the Essence of Tradition and Nature with this stunning Roimata tear drop pendant, meticulously hand-carved from a rare specimen of New Zealand Pounamu greenstone in its serpentine form. This unique piece hails from the Haast Pass, a region renowned for its rugged beauty and rich mineral deposits, and is sourced from a trusted supplier in Hokitika, the heart of New Zealand's greenstone craftsmanship.

Product Details:

Material: New Zealand Pounamu greenstone (serpentine) with hematite inclusions
Accents: Three dots of rainbow Pāua abalone shell, held in place with UV resin
Origin: Haast Pass, New Zealand, supplied by Hokitika stone cutter.
Shape: Roimata (tear drop)
Cord: Adjustable waxed nylon cord

Features:

Cultural Significance: The Roimata shape, a traditional Māori symbol, represents tears of joy, sorrow, and compassion, embodying deep emotional resonance. Wearing this pendant connects you to Māori heritage and the profound symbolism of healing and emotional strength.

Natural Beauty: The serpentine greenstone is a marvel of nature, featuring mesmerizing metallic moments due to hematite inclusions. These shimmering accents within the stone reflect light beautifully, adding a unique, lustrous dimension to the piece.

Artistic Detail: At the bottom of the pendant, three perfectly inlaid dots of rainbow Pāua abalone shell catch the eye. These iridescent accents, held securely with UV resin, enhance the pendant’s visual appeal, offering a colourful contrast to the earthy tones of the greenstone.

Chemical Structure & Formula:

Serpentine:
Chemical Formula: (Mg,Fe)₃Si₂O₅(OH)₄
Crystal Structure: Monoclinic or orthorhombic, depending on the variety.
Composition: Serpentine is primarily composed of magnesium, iron, silicon, and oxygen, with water (hydroxyl groups) included in its structure.

Hematite (Iron Oxide):
Chemical Formula: Fe₂O₃
Crystal Structure: Trigonal (hexagonal close-packed).
Composition: Hematite is composed of iron and oxygen, responsible for its metallic appearance and deep reddish-black hues.
Mohs Hardness:
Serpentine: 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale, depending on the specific composition and variety. It is a softer mineral, making it suitable for carving and detailed jewelry work.
Hematite: 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, giving it a more durable and scratch-resistant quality compared to serpentine.

Geological Location:
Origin: The Haast Pass region, located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand (particularly the West Coast of the South Island), is known for its serpentine deposits. The serpentine found here is often mixed with other minerals like hematite, giving the stone metallic veins or patches.

Geological Formation: Serpentine is formed through a process called serpentinization, where ultramafic rocks (rich in magnesium and iron) undergo chemical alteration due to water, pressure, and heat over millions of years. In this case, the Hematite inclusions are likely formed from iron-rich fluids interacting with the serpentine host rock.

Spiritual and Metaphysical Significance:

Healing and Balance: Serpentine is revered for its strong grounding properties, aiding in meditation and spiritual exploration. The hematite within enhances these qualities, offering additional protection and stability.

Metallic Energy: The hematite inclusions introduce a balancing energy, known to align the body's energies and promote emotional resilience. This combination of serpentine and hematite makes this pendant a powerful talisman for those seeking inner peace and clarity.

Connection to the Earth: The serpentine greenstone, with its earthy tones and metallic luster, is a direct connection to the deep, ancient energy of the Haast Pass. This stone is a reminder of nature’s power and beauty, grounding the wearer in the strength of the Earth.
Symbolism of Pāua Abalone: The rainbow Pāua abalone shell dots add an additional layer of spiritual significance. Pāua is cherished in Māori culture as a symbol of connection, harmony, and prosperity, and its iridescence represents the beauty of the ocean and the mysteries of the natural world.

Care Instructions:

Keep it Safe: Store the pendant in a soft pouch or jewelry box to protect it from scratches and environmental damage.
Gentle Cleaning: Wipe gently with a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, to maintain the stone's natural beauty and the brilliance of the Pāua shell.