Introducing our Narrative Pounamu Collection

Pounamu Fine Jewellery Designed and Crafted by The Village Goldsmith

 

For over forty years, clients have trusted The Village Goldsmith to capture their stories and memories with extraordinary, original jewellery. When we first introduced the Narrative Collection, our aim was to explore the theme of harmony through designs inspired by the rich history, heritage, and diverse cultures that have shaped our country and identity. The collection has resonated deeply with Kiwis both in Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world.

Explore the currents that shape us

This year, we’re introducing five new designs to our Narrative Collection. Inspired by New Zealand’s stunning West Coast landscapes of craggy mountains, dense forests, lush river valleys and the sea. Each piece of pounamu was shaped and revealed by the river’s current that carried it. The pounamu was purchased by our founder, Ian Douglas, nearly forty years ago and has been waiting in the vault for the right inspiration. We hope you’ll agree, it was worth the wait. Our team of jewellery designers collaborated with Ian to create new designs featuring New Zealand greenstone/ pounamu. Meticulously crafted by our master jewellers and setter in our Wellington workshop.
Pop into our Wellington showroom or book an appointment to view these beautiful designs in person.

Shaped by deep currents

Inspired by the mighty Arahura River on New Zealand’s West Coast, which has shaped pounamu for millennia. Our Arahura ring features koru motifs, representing the flowing waters and the life force they carry. 

 

Designer's inspiration:
While on my journey to connect with my Māori culture, the opportunity to design a piece featuring Pounamu was very special. I designed this piece to be a symbol of growth and personal strength. 
A three stone ring traditionally symbolises past present and future. 
The central pounamu represents the present self. Pounamu is a symbol of strength, and connects the wearer to their tipuna and the whenua. The oval shape symbolises wholeness and unity. The diamonds represent the love and resilience surrounding the self that carves both our past and future. The koru shaped awa swells around the central taonga are a symbol of new life, growth and peace - and represent the way that we are connected to and shaped by Te Taiao, the natural world that surrounds us.

The Riversong features a round pounamu cradled in an intricately woven yellow gold setting, capturing the essence of New Zealand’s West Coast. Flanked by two brilliant cut diamonds, this design reflects the light and pristine waters of West Coast rivers while the round shape symbolises unity and connection.


Designer's inspiration:

“When the opportunity came to create new designs for our Narrative Collection, I wanted to tell the story of my culture and journey as a Hong Kong Chinese now settled in New Zealand.

The design incorporates round shapes, as they symbolise harmony and unity in all forms of relationships in Chinese culture. The yellow gold woven basket has details inspired by Chinese and Celtic design. Jade has long symbolised good luck and good fortune in Chinese culture. My mother gifted me a jade bangle for my 18th birthday to protect me and bring me good luck as I grew into adulthood. I migrated to New Zealand on my own as a teenager, and the pounamu (New Zealand jade) at the centre of this design represents a significant part of my life in New Zealand.”- Kalos

Two lovers entwined

Awhi: Two Stone Diamond and Pounamu Platinum Ring

 Named after the Māori word meaning “to hold or embrace.” This two stone diamond ring is crafted in platinum, featuring koru motifs that gently cradle two pear cut diamonds. The koru, symbolising new beginnings and growth, wraps around the diamonds, creating an enduring representation of love and connection.

Awhi Two Stone Diamond and Pounamu Ring designed by Courtney


Designer's inspiration:
“Toi et Moi rings usually have two different cut stones, whereas I wanted to create a symmetrical, balanced version of a classic Toi et Moi ring. My design starts with a band that embraces and protects two petite pounamu slabs as it undulates towards the main setting. With the centre stones, I imagined the two pear cut diamonds as two people entwined, embracing each other and forming a subtle heart shape. The koru details in the setting represent new beginnings. Just like two souls coming together to become a stronger unit.”- Courtney

An unfolding story 

Fern: Pounamu and Diamond Set Ring

Capture the enchanting moment when a fern’s intricate fronds unfold with our Fern ring. At the heart of the ring lies a bezel-set round pounamu, shining with warm green hues. Crafted in yellow gold, the unfurling fronds are elegantly adorned with four fine diamonds.

Designer's inspiration:

“I have loved designing several classic filigree bands for different clients with unique details to represent their story. For this ring, I wanted to create an entirely new filigree design that would incorporate beautiful elements representing Aotearoa. Ferns are abundant in New Zealand forests and are one of the most recognised symbols of our country. It felt natural to create this design featuring unfurling koru fronds to highlight and complement the pounamu centre stone.” - Courtney

A blend of dynamic forces

Tide: Pounamu Ring

Tide Pounamu Ring Designed and Crafted by The Village Goldsmith

Our Tide ring captures the moment when the Hokitika river merges with the Tasman Sea. Reflecting the fluidity and strength of the water, the platinum gracefully wraps around the pounamu, eventually flowing and blending with yellow gold.


Designer's inspiration:
“I really enjoyed designing a wedding ring that would appeal to all genders, and in particular, could inspire men to consider a more expressive design. I chose to contrast two different types of precious metals, blending together, to symbolise two lives becoming one. I encircled the pounamu with platinum to represent infinite motion and strength, like the power of water.”- Meg

Gift with Purchase

The first 10 purchasers of a Narrative Pounamu ring will receive a complimentary Mini Tauhou Pendant (valued at $190) from our Alitura Collection. Inspired by Tauhou, New Zealand’s native songbird. This mini pendant is crafted in sterling silver and features a round New Zealand greenstone in the centre, resembling the Tauhou’s olive green feathers. While supplies last.