Category: Types of Pounamu
Learn about the different types of pounamu, their colours, characteristics, and how each variety is traditionally understood.
Pounamu vs Jade vs Greenstone The terms pounamu, jade, and greenstone are often used interchangeably, but they do not all mean the same thing. Understanding the differences helps avoid confusion and ensures pounamu is recognised in its correct cultural and geological context. While these terms overlap, each has a distinct meaning depending on culture, geography, […]
Types of Pounamu Pounamu is a collective term for several types of stone found in Aotearoa New Zealand. While often grouped together under the name “greenstone,” different varieties of pounamu have distinct appearances, qualities, and cultural associations. Understanding the types of pounamu helps with identification, appreciation, and respectful purchasing. What Determines a Type of Pounamu? […]