Various Maori artefacts made from greenstone (nephrite, pounamu)

Jadeite and jade are two different types of minerals that are often used interchangeably to refer to a green-colored gemstone that has cultural and spiritual significance in many parts of the world.

Jadeite is a pyroxene mineral with the chemical formula NaAlSi2O6. It is one of the two types of minerals that are commonly referred to as "jade" (the other being nephrite). Jadeite is a relatively rare mineral that is found in metamorphic rocks in certain regions of the world, including Myanmar (formerly Burma), Guatemala, and California. It is known for its bright green color, which is caused by more... the presence of chromium and other trace elements. Jadeite is also valued for its hardness and toughness, which makes it suitable for use in jewelry and other decorative objects.

Jade, on the other hand, is a term that is used more broadly to refer to a variety of green-colored gemstones, including both jadeite and nephrite. It is often associated with Chinese culture, where it has been used for thousands of years in art, jewelry, and other decorative objects. Jade is believed to have a range of spiritual and healing properties, including promoting harmony and balance, and is often associated with good luck and prosperity.

Pounamu is a type of greenstone that is highly valued by the indigenous M?ori people of New Zealand. It is also known as New Zealand jade or by its mineral name, nephrite.

Pounamu is found in several locations in the South Island of New Zealand, including the Arahura River, the Marsden Valley, and the West Coast. It is typically dark green in color, although it can also be light green, gray, or white. Pounamu is known for its hardness, durability, and toughness, which make it a popular material for carving, jewelry, and other decorative objects.

For the M?ori people, pounamu is considered a taonga, or treasure, and is highly valued for its spiritual and cultural significance. It is often used to represent strength, resilience, and connection to the land and the ancestors. Pounamu is also used in many traditional M?ori ceremonies and rituals, and is

While jadeite and jade are often used interchangeably, it is important to note that not all green-colored gemstones are actually jade. To be considered true jade, a stone must be either jadeite or nephrite and have certain specific physical and chemical properties.

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There are a diverse collection of objects that represent the

culture and history of the Maori people of New Zealand. These artefacts vary in

type, style, and function, and include the following:

Weapons: Maori weapons were traditionally made from wood,

bone, and stone, and included clubs, spears, and weapons with serrated edges,

such as the patu and mere.

Carvings: Maori carvings are highly symbolic and often

depict stories and legends from Maori mythology. These carvings can be found on

buildings, canoes, and other objects, and are often intricately detailed.

Jewellery: Maori jewellery often features intricate designs

and is more... made from materials such as bone, stone, and shell. Pendants, earrings,

and bracelets are all common forms of Maori jewellery.

Taonga puoro (musical instruments): These are traditional

Maori musical instruments, such as the p?t?tara (conch shell trumpet) and the

k?auau (flute). Maori music is an important part of the culture and these

instruments play a vital role in traditional Maori ceremonies and performances.

Clothing: Maori clothing traditionally includes woven flax

garments, such as the piupiu (a skirt made from flax), as well as cloaks made

from feathers or animal skins.

Waka (canoes): Maori were skilled boat builders and waka

were an important part of Maori culture, used for transport, fishing, and

warfare. Maori waka can be found in a variety of sizes and styles.

Maori artifacts - Important Notice

Objects over 50 years old that also have Maori cultural significance must be inspected by Ministry for Culture & Heritage, and if significant the object will be allocated a "Y" number, a unique identification number. Artefacts that have a Y number can only be purchased by those that are registered collectors with the Ministry for Culture and Heritage.

These collectors have a ‘registered number’. Y numbered artefacts cannot leave the country without written permission from the Ministry for Culture & Heritage. Those who are not registered collectors, and usually reside in New Zealand, can apply to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage to become one.

There are no restrictions on the purchase of Maori items that have no Y number or Pacific Island or other artefacts from around the world.

As this site is a price guide, and does not offer items for sale, the Y numbers applicable to any items on this site are not displayed.. less...