New Zealand Totoweka Pounamu Nephrite Jade Toki/Adze Pendant

–Totoweka. This stone is very rare, and displays spotting or streaks that are red like blood. It is rare to find totoweka in the Westland jade fields, but when a piece is discovered it is highly cherished and sometimes becomes the show piece of the fossicker’s collection. The name comes from toto (blood), weka (Native New zealand Bird) or weka blood.

The Toki, or adze, was designed as a practical instrument, most widely incorporated in axes and a ceremonial symbol made solely for chiefs and warriors. It is used to express their supremacy and indicate their social hierarchy.

Nowadays, Toki is carried as a symbol of power. However, Toki Pounamu are typically given to symbolize perseverance, dedication, bravery,and success,which honors the link between the past and the present.