Manaia - Pounamu #3 tooth The eight-shaped single twist symbolizes

The eight-shaped single twist symbolizes the strength of the bond between two people

with an adjustable drawstring that ensures it will fit most sizes

with beautiful paua embellishment and etched with intricate designs

their loyalty and friendship

The two manaia meet in the middle of the breastplate to form the face of a wheku or carved face

Manaia - Pounamu #3 tooth The eight-shaped single twist symbolizesThis Pounamu Manaia is carved from Kawakawa, lashed with black waxed cord. The Manaia represents a guardian that protects and balances. It is seen as a messenger between the physical and spiritual world, which is why only one side of its face is seen. It is also depicted with the head of a bird, the body of a man, and the tail of a fish (sometimes looks like a serpent). These represent the areas to which the manaia protects, over land, over the sea or