Rei Niho Pendant - Inanga

Rei Niho - Īnanga

The Pounamu Rei Niho (Eye Tooth) maintains the traditional form and symbolises the close bond between Māori and Tohorā. In ancient times, wearing a whale tooth pendant (rei niho) was a sign of high status among Chiefs. These teeth were prized for their rarity, as they came from the sperm whale (Paraoa). Due to the scarceness of actual whale teeth, people began creating replicas from other materials, such as this example carved from Pounamu.

The authentic West Coast Inanga Pounamu is named after a native New Zealand freshwater fish. Its appearance is pale and sometimes translucent, resembling the young Inanga fish. The stone varies from pearly white to grey-green, with levels of transparency from clear to opaque. Over time, it may develop a subtle olive hue as it ages and oxidizes. This treasured material holds great significance for Māori, traditionally used to craft Mere and Patu weapons.

Carved in Kirikiriroa from New Zealand Pounamu

Kai Whakairo/Carver: - Jeremy Walsh (Ngāti Maniapoto)    

Size: 65mm length x 43mm width x 90mm depth

Pounamu: Īnanga