Jade carving meanings

The stone has been worked by the Maori of New Zealand from as early as the twelfth century.

Jade has been used for tools, weapons, ornaments, items of trade and a symbol of authority and ceremony.

It is regarded a taonga or prized possession and considered an honour to receive.

Each Jade Pendant shape has traditional significance and symbolism. Read below to find out what each piece means.

Fish Hooks / Hei Matau carving

Determination, strength, peace, prosperity & safe journey especially over water.

Twist or Crossover carving

Bonding of friendship joining of lives for eternity.

Circle or Disc carving

Symbolises no beginning or end, continuous contained and complete.

Koru / Spiral carving

New life or beginning, growth, harmony and peace.

Patu Jade Carving

Patu, Mere or Whakaika

Weapon or club wielded for emphasis to exhortation. Modern usage symbolises facing and overcoming life’s challenges and difficulties.

Tiki

Human form possibly representing ancestors. Powerful good luck symbol. Tilted head is thinking, hand is strength, mouth is communication, heart is love and loins fertility.

Manaia

Spiritual guardian protects wearer from evil. Traditionally with head of a bird, body of a man and tail of a fish creating balance of sky earth and sea.