Aroha, Courage & Connection

Manawa (Heart)

Carved in the form of the heart, Manawa symbolises aroha (love), emotional strength, and the life force carried within. Worn close to the chest, it reminds us of care, resilience, and connection.

What is the Meaning Behind a Pounamu Heart

Have you ever held a heart-shaped pounamu and felt its calm presence against your skin?

In Aotearoa, greenstone (pounamu) carries mauri (life force) and mana (prestige, strength). Manawa is one of the most personal expressions of these qualities. The word manawa in te reo Māori means “heart” — the source of life, feeling, and aroha.

While the heart shape is recognised worldwide, within Māori culture it speaks to more than love. Manawa embodies courage, compassion, and the deep connections that sustain us.

“He aroha whakatō, he aroha puta mai.”

If kindness is sown, then kindness you shall receive.

Manawa Meaning

Manawa carries meanings that have guided and supported people for generations:


  • Aroha & Compassion: A symbol of love and kindness, for self and for others.
  • Emotional Strength: A reminder to stay steady through life’s challenges.
  • Healing & Renewal: Linked to resilience and the power of a hopeful heart.
  • Connection & Whānau: Often gifted to celebrate relationships, milestones, or new beginnings.

Gifting Manawa

To gift a Manawa is to share aroha from the heart. Whether between partners, parents and children, or to mark milestones such as weddings, births, or recoveries, it carries love, protection, and courage.

As the whakataukī reminds us: “He aroha whakatō, he aroha puta mai” — when aroha is given, it returns. A Manawa pendant embodies that exchange, becoming a taonga that holds both story and connection.

Honouring Tradition & Everyday Wear

Manawa is more than jewellery — it is a taonga, shaped by tradition and alive with personal meaning. Worn close to the heart, it gathers the story of its wearer, deepening in connection with time.

At Arrowtown Stonework, we showcase Manawa pendants carved by artists across Aotearoa. Each piece honours Māori tradition while reflecting the unique story of its wearer.

FAQs

Manawa (heart) symbolises aroha, compassion, and inner strength. Carved in pounamu, it represents the life force and connections we hold dear.

It can be worn by anyone — men, women, and young people. Manawa resonates with those celebrating love, navigating challenges, or marking meaningful milestones.

Your pendant arrives unblessed, so you may follow your own tikanga. A blessing can be as simple as sharing intentions in your own words or seeking guidance from a kaumātua.

  • Awa blessing: Place in flowing water, speak a wish for love or protection, then dry gently.
  • Shared intention: Hold it together and voice your hopes.
  • Karakia with a kaumātua: An elder may offer a short karakia.

There’s no single right way — the respect and aroha you give it is what it will carry.

Āe (yes). Pounamu has long been both traded and gifted. Choosing a piece for yourself is a powerful act of aroha and self-connection.

  • Durability: Pounamu is strong but can chip if struck. Handle with care.
  • Wear Often: Oils from your skin bring out its lustre.
  • Storage: Keep separate from hard objects.
  • Cleaning: Use mild soap, soft cloth, and fresh water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Cord Care: Water won’t harm the stone, but may wear the cord faster. Rebinding is available.

Discover Our Collection

Explore Manawa
Add to Wishlist
Heart Greenstone Medium Pendant
$235.00
Add to Wishlist
Heart Greenstone Small Pendant
$199.00
Add to Wishlist
Heart Inanga Pounamu Large Pendant
$395.00
Add to Wishlist
Heart Inanga Pounamu Large – Pendant
$395.00