10 Nov 2025
The pounamu toki is one of the most recognised and respected forms in Māori carving - a symbol of strength, courage, and leadership. Once a working adze used to shape wood and waka, today it’s worn as a pendant carved in New Zealand jade, carrying the mana of both the maker and the wearer. Each toki connects people, place, and purpose. Carved with intention, worn with meaning.
A toki carved from pounamu represents determination, authority, and resilience. Its chisel-like form recalls the traditional adze once used by Māori craftspeople — a reminder of skill, precision, and the strength to endure. When worn, it encourages the wearer to move forward with integrity and confidence.
→ Learn more about the toki adze’s history and symbolism
You can find authentic pounamu toki necklaces at Mountain Jade, where each piece is carved by hand. Our artists use genuine New Zealand pounamu, sourced responsibly and shaped with care to reveal the beauty within every stone. Every carving is labelled with its stone type and origin, so you can shop with confidence knowing exactly where your piece comes from and who created it.
Pounamu is a living stone that responds to the warmth of the wearer. To care for your toki:
- Wear it often - natural oils help maintain its lustre.
- Rinse occasionally in warm water with mild soap, then dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals.
Many people bless or cleanse their toki in running water when it is first received, acknowledging its connection to the rivers from which pounamu is found.
→ View our guide to caring for pounamu jewellery
Every Mountain Jade toki is carved by hand, shaped slowly to follow the natural patterns of the stone. Some pieces carry soft ripples of kawakawa green; others hold deep, inky textures that catch the light. Each carving is unique - a collaboration between artist and stone that honours tradition while creating something deeply personal.
A pounamu toki is often given to mark new beginnings, achievements, or transitions. It offers protection for travellers, encouragement for leaders, and strength for those overcoming challenges. When gifted, it carries the shared energy of both giver and receiver - a connection to be worn close to the heart.
Strength, courage, leadership, and resilience - qualities of those who shape and guide others.
Yes. The toki’s form comes from the traditional adze used by Māori to carve wood and build waka.
Authentic toki are carved in New Zealand from local pounamu and are accompanied by details about the artist and the region where the stone was found. At Mountain Jade, each carving is labelled with its stone type and origin, so you can buy with confidence knowing exactly where your piece was sourced and who shaped it. We’re careful to name each carving clearly, so there’s no confusion about where your pounamu comes from or what it represents.
Yes. When worn or gifted with respect, it carries positive energy for anyone, regardless of background.
Each toki holds its own story - a reminder of endurance and connection.
→ Shop our collection of hand-carved pounamu toki necklaces
