1. Tools and Weapons:
* Adzes (Tōki): Greenstone was the preferred material for crafting adzes, crucial tools for carving wood, shaping canoes, and preparing land for planting.
* Knives and Spearheads: Greenstone's sharp edges made it ideal for creating knives, spearheads, and other weapons for hunting and warfare.
2. Ornaments and Jewelry:
* Hei-tiki (Neck Ornaments): These iconic greenstone pendants were believed to possess spiritual power and were used for protection, good luck, and social status.
* Earrings, Pendants, and Bracelets: Greenstone was also used to create various other adornments, reflecting the wearer's wealth, lineage, and status.
* Ceremonial Objects: Greenstone was crafted into intricately carved objects used in ceremonies and rituals.
3. Trade and Status:
* Prestige: Greenstone was highly valued, representing prestige and power. Possessing greenstone items was a sign of wealth and social standing.
* Trade: Greenstone was traded throughout New Zealand, with different tribes having access to various types. This trade network played a vital role in fostering relationships and cultural exchange.
4. Spiritual Significance:
* Mana: Greenstone was believed to possess mana (spiritual power) that could protect and bring good fortune.
* Connection to the Earth: Greenstone is a sacred material for the Maori, symbolizing their connection to the land and its natural resources.
Types of Greenstone:
The Maori recognized several different types of greenstone, each with its own specific qualities and uses:
* Pounamu: The most common type, known for its vibrant green color.
* Inanga: A rarer, translucent greenstone.
* Tangiwai: A highly prized greenstone with a distinctive, mottled appearance.
In Summary:
Greenstone was an integral part of Maori life, serving practical, ornamental, and spiritual purposes. It played a crucial role in their economy, social structures, and cultural practices. The intricate carvings, symbolic meanings, and spiritual significance attached to greenstone objects continue to resonate today, showcasing the deep connection the Maori people have with this precious material.