This beautifully hand carved bone Hei Matau Manaia Pendant is designed and carved by highly talented Maori artist, David Taylor.

The Hei Matau is the Fish Hook.  Its design signifies abundance, strength and determination.  The Hook design is believed to bring peace, prosperity and good health, and is a good luck charm for catching positive energy and for safe travel over water.

The Manaia is a mythical being, a communicator between earth and sky.  It is believed to be a spiritual guardian, a carrier of supernatural powers.  The Manaia acts as a provider and protector over sky, earth and sea.  It is usually portrayed with a bird-like head.  Manaia are often worn by New Zealanders serving in the military.

Here, David has carved Hei Matau and Manaia together, into a beautiful piece of Maori art.  He has tea-stained the head of the Manaia, to show off his beautiful carving, and used natural New Zealand Paua (abalone) shell for the Manaia's eye.

The Hei Matau Manaia Bone Pendant measures approximately 6cm (2 3/8") long.  It is complemented by a handmade muka (flax fibre) woven cord with an adjustable paua shell toggle.

A powerful spiritual piece to wear.