Research Catalog

Title

Mana pounamu = New Zealand jade / Russell J. Beck with Maika Mason.

Author

Beck, Russell J. (Russell John), 1941-

Publication

Auckland [N.Z.] : Reed, c2002.

Items in the Library & Off-site

Holdings

Details

Additional Authors

Mason, Maika.

Description

180 p., [8] p. of plates : ill. (some col.), maps; 25 cm.

Summary

"Pounamu is the beautiful green stone that traditionally served Maori as tool, weapon, adornment and currency. More recently it has been the subject of dispute between Ngai Tahu and the Crown. That dispute was settled with the return of the resource to Ngai Tahu in 1997. Under Ngai Tahu, a long term management programme is now in place that includes research into all aspects of the stone. The initial results of this research, conducted by Russell Beck and Maika Mason, are incorporated in this book. Other aspects, such as origins and natural occurrence, names and varieties, human history, both Maori and Pakeha, Maori myths and legends associated with pounamu, physical properties and the methods evolved for processing and carving it are also discussed. This book looks at jade in all its aspects. For carvers, jewellers, rockhounds and students it will be invaluable -- and for all those who are interested in New Zealand's history, it tells a turbulent and fascinating story. Mana Pounamu is the fully revised and updated edition of New Zealand Jade, first published in 1984"--Publisher's description.

Alternative Title

• Mana pounamu
• New Zealand jade

Subject

• Gem carving > New Zealand
• Jade > New Zealand
• Jade art objects > New Zealand

Note

• Previous ed.: 1984.

Bibliography (note)

• Includes bibliographical references (p. 174-180) and index.

Processing Action (note)

• committed to retain

Contents

Terminology -- Nephrite -- Jade locations -- Maori history and traditional stories -- Taonga pounamu -- The working of pounamu by Maori -- The return of pounamu -- European lapidary -- Tangiwai -- the stone of tears -- Carving jade -- Technical aspects of New Zealand nephrite.

ISBN

0790008637 (pbk.)

LCCN

^^2003427020

Owning Institutions

Harvard Library