What to know about buying and gifting pounamu in New Zealand

Pounamu, a precious stone from New Zealand, is increasingly popular for gifts and personal use. Traditionally, it was believed that one should not buy pounamu for themselves, but carvers now say this idea is a misconception rooted in marketing. Carvers emphasize the importance of caring for pounamu to prevent breakage. If a piece breaks, it can often be repurposed, maintaining its cultural significance. Blessing new pounamu is a personal choice, with varying beliefs among different communities. Ngāi Tahu, the iwi responsible for pounamu, has implemented an authentication scheme to combat illegal trading. They extract pounamu sustainably, ensuring it is available for future generations. Carvers advocate for bespoke pieces rather than mass production to preserve the stone's value.