Greenstone
 

Can anybody give me any information on Tangiwai, more commonly known as greenstone? I know it is found near Milford Sound. What exactly does it look like, how expensive, and is it hard to find jewelry made with it?

Greenstone - Nephrite Jade (pounamu).
It is a hard, opaque, emerald stone, formed in alpine fault lines under intense heat and pressure. The west coast rivers of the south island is where it is mainly found. The stone holds spiritual significance for the Maori people. I have seen it in jewellery shops in Havelock, which is not far from Picton. Like all jewellery, I guess you can now purchase greenstone jewellery at NZ's International Airports. As for the cost, I can't help you there, I have purchased greenstone.
Regards Leigh.

That last posting should read, "I have never purchased greenstone"

Check out the Greenstone Artists Cooperative Web site for artists and photos:

http://www.kiwiartz.com/art/55_green...b4372c97d31ac2

My wife has several greenstone necklaces, and they are not terribly expensive, generally about NZ $75-$100.

You can buy greenstone jewelry all over New Zealand. I paid $40 NZ for a fairly simple pair of earrings for myself, and around $25 NZ for another pair for one of my daughters.

Pieces can be more expensive depending on how intricate the carving is. It's lovely stuff!

Lee Ann