This fabulous Maori Shark Albatross Bone Pendant is carved by local artist, David Taylor.  It is styled on David's original pendant of the same name, but does not have the contrast dye.

David is of Taranaki Maori/ Scottish descent, and his designs are strongly influenced by his Maori background. 

The design is essentially a Maori Hei Matau ( fishhook pendant).  The spiritual Maori meaning behind the hook design is one of strength and determination.  It is also a good luck charm, believed to confer safe travel over water.

But look closer, and you see that the pendant incorporates two creatures important to the Maori - the shark ( mango, mako, or ururoa), and the albatross (toroa).  The shark was considered to be a guardian spirit; it was also an important food source and its teeth and oil were used for jewellery, tools and cosmetics.   Note the detailing - the shark's eye and gills.

The Albatross represented beauty and power, and the wearing of an albatross pendant is believed to confer those qualities on the wearer.  Because the feathers were so scarce, only chiefly tribal members could wear the beautiful, white albatross feathers in their hair.  The birds were caught out at sea., and every part of their body was used.

The Albatross Shark Bone Pendant rests on a synthetic cord with adjustable toggle closure, making it ideal for surfers or fishermen, who might get the pendant wet.  The pendant measures approximately 3" in length.