Greenstone Jade Mere Maori Clubs

The Maori word for greenstone is Pounamu. The stone is also known as Nephrite (jade) and Bowenite (serpentine). The New Zealand variety is found only at Te Waipounamu (the waters of greenstone) which is the South Island. Colours vary considerably Pounamu was and is highly valued by Maori for its beauty and spiritual quality. Traditionally it was shaped into ornaments, weapons and tools which over time acquired status as taonga or treasured possessions.