Yuki Tanaka Hei Matau

Yuki Tanaka is a multi-faceted artist with a background in fashion design, pattern making and silversmithing. His deep appreciation for the variety and beauty of pounamu drives for the care he puts into making the mounts and brass braces for presenting taonga, as well as for binding, while also fuelling his growing passion for carving. Tanaka creates taonga with Sands Carving Studio.  

Pounamu is a precious stone taonga (treasure) found in Aotearoa throughout the west coast of Te Wai Pounamu (South Island). The term encompasses nephrite, bowenite, and serpentinite, which is carved into forms representing ancestors and connection with the natural world. Most commonly known in its green form, which carries the hues of the forests and rivers, pounamu is valued for its beauty, durability and carving potential. The roimata depicts a tear of sadness or grief, which is understood as a link between realms. Worn as pounamu, this motif is widely used in a healing capacity, imbuing the wearer with comfort and interconnectedness. Just as pounamu is a gift from the land, carved greenstone should always be a gift between two people.

Each piece of pounamu jewellery has been made by hand and is one of a kind. 

11.6 x 7cm x 0.5 pendant 
33cm (approx.) necklace
made in Aotearoa, New Zealand