KAITIAKI
In stock
KAITIAKI - GUARDIAN
Treat yourself, or a friend, to a stunning Manaia pendant with Pāua eye inserts.
We had our mammoth material carbon dated to get an accurate measure of its age. The testing was done for us by GNS Science, a New Zealand Crown Research Institute and New Zealand's leading provider of Earth, geoscience and isotope research - so their assessment of this material is as accurate as is possible using radiocarbon dating technology.
These are beautifully crafted representations of these mythical creatures - with the traditional head of a bird, but with a tail shaped in the classic koru form - a graceful and visually attractive pendant.
The Manaia is a mythical being - a kind deity that helps people communicate with their ancestors. The koru in the tail is a symbol of re-birth, fresh beginnings and peace.
Take a look at the video to appreciate how lovely these pendants are.
Most Maori art tells the story of a tribe or event. The manaia form is blended into many Maori designs with subtle differences between tribes. It has many forms as it is intertwined with other shapes and patterns to depict its different powers and its interaction with the spirit or mortal worlds.
We have carved these in Woolly Mammoth Tusk. Please use the drop-down menu to make your selection.
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Delivered to you on a hand plaited, adjustable cord. We will also include one of our 'Kia ora' cards which explains the meaning behind the Manaia design.
Meaning: Guide ~ Protect ~ Communicate
Material: Woolly Mammoth Tusk with Pāua shell
Cord Colour: Various Colours
Cord Length: Adjustable
Size: 47mm (1.8") long; 24mm (0.9") wide