Breastplate I kōuma Pounamu Aotearoa New Zealand Greenstone

(W82 x H40 x D8.6) mm / adjustable waxed braided cord

Certified Ngai Tāhū greenstone

Kōuma; (noun) sternum, breastbone, breastplate, worn over the torso, carries a message of physical as well as symbolic protection for the wearer. 

Our breastplate designs are informed both by our Latin American, Muisca Indigenous heritage as well as Māori whakairo traditional carving such as the Rei Puta and Rei Niho designs.

Early examples of the breastplate in Aotearoa date back to the Māori material culture of the archaic period, evolving as a type of personal body armour, whilst also mirroring the shape of the human physique.

Māori knowledge, mātauranga intrinsically recognises that all animate and inanimate elements are infused with spirit or living essence; encompassing the element of stewardship, or kaitiakitanga, associated with the term when it is used in relation to resources, including land and water.

Balance, symmetry, exchange and reciprocity, nurture of growth and replication for the benefit of future generations informs this design; both consciously and unconsciously can restate and reinforce these values in the daily life. Ref. ‘Pacific Jewellery and Adornment'.

Acknowledging and upholding the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is an integral part of our Aotearoa New Zealand perspective.