New Zealand serpentine Toki style Pounamu pendant.

Discover the Power and Beauty of Tradition with this exquisite Toki-styled pendant, meticulously hand-carved from a rare specimen of New Zealand serpentine greenstone. This pendant, with its rich heritage and deep connection to the Earth, is crafted from stone sourced directly from the Haast Pass, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. The stone is procured through a trusted supplier in Hokitika, a town renowned for its expert artisans.

Product Details:

• Material: New Zealand Serpentine Greenstone (with hematite inclusions)
• Origin: Haast Pass, New Zealand, supplied by Hokitika stone cutter
• Shape: Toki (adze) style
• Cord: Adjustable waxed nylon cord

Features:

• Cultural Significance: The Toki shape is a traditional Māori design that symbolizes strength, determination, and authority. Historically, the Toki was an essential tool, and its pendant form now represents the power of leadership and resilience.
• Natural Elegance: The serpentine greenstone showcases unique metallic moments due to the presence of hematite inclusions. These shimmering metallic flecks add depth and intrigue to the stone, creating a striking visual effect that enhances its natural beauty.

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.

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  Spiritual and Metaphysical Significance:

• Grounding and Protection: Serpentine is known for its grounding properties, helping the wearer to feel balanced and secure. The hematite inclusions further enhance these qualities, offering additional protection and stability during meditation or daily wear.
• Earthly Connection: The serpentine greenstone, with its deep, earthy tones and metallic luster, serves as a powerful reminder of nature's strength and beauty. This stone connects the wearer to the ancient energy of the Haast Pass, grounding them in the stability and resilience of the Earth.
• Symbolism of the Toki: Wearing a Toki pendant is more than just an adornment; it’s a connection to the Māori heritage, embodying qualities such as strength, wisdom, and leadership. This pendant is a meaningful symbol for those who seek to embody these traits in their own lives.

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.