Greenstone

:This article is about a form of green nephrite jade found in New Zealand. For other meanings, see Greenstone (disambiguation).

Related Topics:
Nephrite jade - New Zealand - Greenstone (disambiguation)

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New Zealand greenstone is formed by the metamorphism of basalt. It is composed of chlorite and epidote which makes the greenstone a mid-to-dark green colour.

Related Topics:
Basalt - Chlorite - Epidote

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Greenstone rocks are generally found in rivers. They appear as nondescript boulders and stones and are difficult to identify without cutting them open. The mining of greenstone is closely controlled.

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The M?ori word for greenstone is pounamu. They call the South Island of New Zealand Te Wai Pounamu, meaning "The Greenstone Water". Greenstone is highly valued by the M?ori and it plays an important role in their culture. It is considered a taonga or treasure, and so is protected under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Related Topics:
M?ori - Pounamu - South Island - Their culture - Taonga - Treaty of Waitangi

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Greenstone is a very hard stone and must be worked with care and patience. Often diamond tools are needed to carve it, and it can be turned into beautiful jewellery. Much of this is in traditional M?ori designs.

Related Topics:
Diamond - Jewellery

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Because greenstone is so hard it has been used as an alternative to iron in axes and similar hand tools. The Maori club, the mere, was often made of greenstone. Greenstone artefacts were often given as gifts to seal important agreements.

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