More Than Just Adornment
The Meaning Behind Māori Symbols in Jewellery
Māori symbols carry deep cultural meaning, with each shape and pattern rooted in whakapapa (ancestry), the natural world, and the spiritual connections between all things. When these symbols are worn as jewellery, they’re not just beautiful—each piece tells a story, holds mana (spiritual power), and often symbolises values like strength, growth, protection, or connection.
Here’s a look at some of the most recognised Māori symbols often featured in contemporary jewellery—along with what they mean and when they are traditionally used.
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Symbolism in Māori Necklace Designs
Hei Tiki
Symbolises: Fertility, wisdom, connection to ancestors.
Often thought of as a spiritual representation of a revered ancestor, the hei tiki was historically worn by people of high status and passed down as a precious family heirloom. Some hei tiki were even named and remembered in waiata (songs), linking them directly to whakapapa (genealogy).
TURQUOISE NECKLACE - 'HEI TIKI'
AMETHYST NECKLACE - 'HEI TIKI'
ROSE QUARTZ NECKLACE - 'HEI TIKI'
Hei Toki
Symbolises: Strength, leadership, courage.
Originally an adze blade used by master carvers and warriors, the toki shape represents strength and authority. Historically worn through the ear, today it is a popular pendant design, often given as a gift to mark life transitions or achievements.
Material Matters: Not Just Greenstone
While pounamu remains highly prized, Māori have always worked with what was around them — and every material carries its own meaning and texture:
- Bone – often carved from beef bone or, traditionally, whale bone; associated with life, sustenance, and continuity
- Wood – lightweight, warm, and connected to the natural world; perfect for larger designs or everyday wear
- Stone – earthy and grounding; often used when pounamu wasn’t available
- Pounamu (Jade) – sacred, rare, extremely durable; represents prestige and is traditionally gifted rather than bought for oneself
Modern artists continue this tradition by using these materials respectfully — sometimes combining them — to keep the artform evolving while staying rooted in culture.
Pikorua (Twist)
Symbolises: Eternal connection, loyalty, unity.
The twisting shape of the pikorua represents two lives, paths, or cultures intertwined. These pieces are often gifted to friends, partners, or whānau as symbols of unbreakable connection.
Understanding the Difference
Patu & Mere
The patu is a traditional Māori weapon — a short, flat, handheld club designed for close combat. Its shape allowed for powerful strikes, and it was often carried by warriors and chiefs as both a weapon and a symbol of authority. The word patu is a general term, with many variations depending on the material used:
- Patu rakau – made from wood
- Patu paraoa – carved from whalebone
- Patu onewa – shaped from basalt or other hard stone
- Mere pounamu – the most prestigious version, carved from precious greenstone (pounamu)
The mere is not just another patu — it holds a special place in Māori culture. Carefully shaped and polished from jade-like stone, mere were highly prized, often named and treasured as heirlooms. They were seen not only as weapons but also as taonga (sacred objects), representing leadership, mana (spiritual authority), and peace when carried by chiefs.
In modern times, the patu and mere continue to hold deep meaning. Miniature versions are worn as pendants, carved from a range of materials including bone, wood, stone, and pounamu. These pieces are powerful symbols of strength, resilience, protection, and ancestral connection — honouring the warrior spirit and leadership qualities passed down through generations.
Koru
Symbolises: New beginnings, harmony, personal growth.
Inspired by the unfurling fern frond, the koru is a symbol of life and regeneration. Often seen in earrings and pendants, it’s a meaningful gift for those starting a new chapter, or simply a reminder to stay grounded and balanced.
Kiwiana jewllery
More Than Just Adornment
