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Keystone II

At the centre of the arch rests the keystone, the quiet element that holds harmony. Rounded above and grounded below, this form speaks of balance kept, bonds held, and the strength in what endures.

Product Information

  • SKU: S008

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Sizes are approximate, reflecting the nature of handmade work.

Stone

I carve pounamu (nephrite jade, serpentine), but often work with lesser-known New Zealand stones such as pakohe (argillite) and ōnewa (greywacke), among others. Each has its own presence, weight, and integrity — chosen for how it feels as much as how it looks.

  • Pounamu (Nephrite Jade) — A dense, metamorphic stone formed deep within the earth around 140–200 million years ago. Its structure of tightly interlocked tremolite crystals makes it exceptionally strong and smooth to the touch. Found in the South Island, pounamu has long been treasured in Māori culture as a stone of strength, connection, and protection.

  • Pounamu (Serpentine) —Formed under similar conditions as nephrite, serpentine is a softer, more varied stone ranging in colour from mossy green to warm brown. Formed around 140–200 million years ago, it’s found near jade-bearing zones. While less durable, it shares cultural significance and is appreciated for its warmth and natural variation.

  • Pakohe (Argillite)— A fine-grained sedimentary stone hardened over 200–250 million years through low-grade metamorphism. Found primarily in the Nelson region, pakohe is smooth, dense, and dark in tone. Traditionally used for tools and blades, it carries a sense of quiet strength and enduring purpose.

  • Ōnewa (Greywacke) — A rugged, grey stone formed from ancient seabed sediments compressed 200–300 million years ago. Rich in mineral fragments and shaped by tectonic uplift, ōnewa is found throughout New Zealand. Strong and grounded, it was often used for weapons and tools, valued for its resilience and weight.

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