In Māori tradition, the Pāua shell (often called the sea opal) is far more than a beautiful coastal remnant. It is considered a ‘taonga’, a sacred treasure of the deep. The shifting, luminous greens, gold and oceanic blues of its nacre are deeply symbolic, traditionally representing the ‘Whetū’, the watchful, protective eyes of ancestors. For generations, this iridescent shell has been carried as a powerful talisman, offering resilience, emotional healing and harmony to those who wear it close to the skin.
Years ago, a journey across the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand brought me captured by the shifting, iridescent beauty of Pāua shell. Sourced from a local artisan, these rare pieces sat safely in my studio for years, waiting for the perfect creative awakening. Now, they have finally come to life as two entirely distinct, one-of-a-kind expressions.
To honour this profound history, I have crafted two unique necklaces. One showcases a striking, artisan-framed silver pendant; the other weaves the raw, sculptural beauty of the shell directly into the strand itself. Paired with different gemstones and pearls as well as handcrafted Hill Tribe silver, these pieces bridge old-world tradition with modern, wearable art. Born of the ocean, they carry a story that belongs entirely to the wearer.
As a continuation of this Pacific story, a third creation has joined the collection. Sourced from the same New Zealand travels, this delicate talisman features a beautifully carved bone pendant by master carver Brian Flintoff, titled “Whale – Ngā Mātāmua a Tangaroa”, a striking dual-sided ‘Manaia’, a sacred guardian spirit whose form merges seamlessly with ‘Tohorā, the ocean-dwelling whale.
Set into the smooth, hand-carved bone, a single, iridescent Pāua shell eye anchors the creature’s face. It serves as a literal and symbolic focal point: the eye of an ocean-faring ancestor (‘kaitiaki’) watching over those who navigate life's waters.
As a continuation of this Pacific story, a third creation has joined the collection. Sourced from the same New Zealand travels, this delicate talisman features a beautifully carved bone pendant by master carver Brian Flintoff, titled “Whale – Ngā Mātāmua a Tangaroa”, a striking dual-sided ‘Manaia’, a sacred guardian spirit whose form merges seamlessly with ‘Tohorā, the ocean-dwelling whale.
Set into the smooth, hand-carved bone, a single, iridescent Pāua shell eye anchors the creature’s face. It serves as a literal and symbolic focal point: the eye of an ocean-faring ancestor (‘kaitiaki’) watching over those who navigate life's waters.
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