This is the most amazing handcrafted Hei Tiki from an exceptional piece of Raukaraka Pounamu. The colour of this stone is fantastic and with antique look and feel, makes this a truly unique taonga. This already magical carving is further enhanced by the paua shell eyes and contours of the stone, carved by a master carver.
According to legends Tiki was the first man on Earth who originated from the stars. The first mortal person who created the first woman after his image. The exact meaning of the Tiki is disputed. There are several opinions but the most accepted are that the Tiki stands for fertility. Traditionally regarded as a good luck charm meant to keep evil spirits away.
Genuine West Coast Greenstone - Raukaraka from the Taramakau River Area. This is the term used by the Māori of the Cook Strait region of the Kawakawa variety that is streaked with a shade of olive green and has yellow and orange hues that blend into the greens. This stone shares its name with the New Zealand native Karaka tree.
Ngai Tahu authenticate stone.
Hand Carved by Des Hetherington
Size: 134mm long x 85mm wide x 22mm thick
This will be the exact piece you will receive in the photos, there may be a slight degree of colour variation based on different computer or device screen resolutions that you are viewing from.
