Maori Bone Scrimshaw Antiqued Tattoo Hei Matau Fish Hook Necklace

Hand Carved Hawaiian Style Solid Antiqued Bone Scrimshaw Hei Matau Fish Hook Muri Paraoa (whale tail) Necklace. Comes on a bound, braided style, adjustable, sliding bead, one size fits all, cord.

As each piece of bone is unique, no two will antique in the exact same way. Each piece will be as unique as the person who wears it.

The fish-hook shape of the hei matau finds its origins in Maori legend, which holds that the North Island of New Zealand was once a huge fish that was caught by the great mariner Maui using only a woven line and a bone hook. Legend holds that the shape of Hawkes Bay is that of the hei matau, which caught in the fish's side.

For the Maori, the hei matau is taonga (a cultural treasure). It represents not only their land, but also prosperity, fertility and safe passage over water.

MURI PARAOA (whale tail): represents speed, strength, sensitivity, and a strong connection to the sea.

Packaging includes the name of the piece and its meaning.

Size: 3.0cm (30mm) W x 5.6cm (56mm) L

Inches: 1.15"W x 2.20"L (size may vary slightly)