New Zealand’s indigenous Maori people believe that there is a life force in all inanimate objects. The kohatu pa is simply a stone, but one that becomes imbued with significance for the one who chose it—a touchstone representing a specific time, place, or feeling. These pendants are made from polished basalt pebbles gathered by hand from the gemstone beach at Birdlings Flat on the eastern shore of New Zealand’s south island. They are shaped and polished only by volcanic action and centuries of Pacific waves, and an artisan then decorates them with hand-carved Maori kowhaiwhai (ornamentation).

The koru spiral (left) is a stylized fern frond and represents new life and rebirth, growth, and a deep connection to the earth. The moana (right) is a repeating pattern based on the ocean waves and serves as a reminder of the importance of being in harmony with nature. Each carved stone hangs from an adjustable waxed cord.

1-2"L pendant on an adjustable waxed cord.