A Bone to Pick

A few days ago, I had the honor of having a friend place a Maori bone carved necklace around my neck. This necklace was carved specifically for me. It's a one of a kind piece of art with enormous symbology.

A Hei-Matau:

These very stylised fish hooks represent strength, prosperity,abundance, fertility and a great respect for the sea.
It also is said to provide good luck and safety when traveling over water so is often worn by travelers.
Hei-Matau are also symbols of power and authority which are held in great reverence by the Maori people.

They were used as a practical tool for fishing and were often decorated as a sign of respect for the creatures of the sea.
There are many styles of Hei-Matau from the true hook designs to the more ornamental styles which became treasured heirlooms for generations following.

Koru:

The spiral is a Koru, represents the fern frond as it opens bringing new life and purity to the world. It also represents peace, tranquility and spirituality along with a strong sense of regrowth or new beginnings.
The Koru is also often associated with nurturing so when interlocked with others is frequently used to represent the strength and purity of a loving relationship within a family.

The particular design I have incorporates both of these traditional styles into one piece... The meaning behind it is significant. They talk about a wise leader and provider with a focus on family, love and spirituality. For me, it marks the beginning of a new path in my life.

One thing about the bone carvings... it's considered bad luck to put it on yourself. If you should 'buy' one, follow the customs of the Maori people and have a friend give it to you. Better yet, find a friend and buy one for each other. It will create a bond between you and that person for life. As you wear the carving, it will absorb a part of your soul and will itself change in the process. You'll see this physically as the bone goes from white to creamy honey in color. In the process of wearing it, you'll create a family heirloom to be passed on for generations.