Hei Matau and Wera ring

January 16th 2016

My interest in Maori symbols started a long time ago when a dear friend lent me his jade wedding piece to help me out during a difficult time. This ring was designed around the Maori symbols of the fish hook (hei matau) and whale tail (wera).

Among other things the whale tail (wera) symbolises friendship and family harmony in Maori culture. Likewise the fish hook (hei matau) has various meanings, however the ones I wanted to represent in this ring were strength and prosperity.

In the band of my ring design I have placed the harmony of the wera inside the strength of the hei matau.

Three diamonds are claw set into a white gold setting with a twisted wire edge. The total diamond weight is .27 carats and I have made this ring in 9ct yellow and white gold alloys. Meant to be a ring that can be worn daily I have kept the profile of the ring quite low.

I often get asked what type of jewellery I prefer to make. Symbolic jewellery would have to be right up there as one of my favourites.