Sure like most towns and cities around the world, there are weekend markets selling trinkets and food stuffs, but if you are in the market for jewels, New Zealand has it's own semi-precious stone, GREENSTONE. It is a water stone that locals believe should not be purchased...
The thrill of a good piece of greenstone comes from either finding it or having somebody give it to you.
A beautiful stone both hard and tough, its lustre improves with age, reputedly as a result of being worn next to the skin. Maoris once used it to make weapons and prized it for its properties of beauty and strength. Many families hand down pieces for generations.
New Zealand greenstone is composed of either nephrite or bowenite, whereas the term jade is restricted to nephrite and another distinct mineral -jadeite- which is not found in New Zealand.
On the south island's west coast there are many pockets where greenstone can be found, if you are patient and look hard enough. Around Jackson Bay is a good spot, getting a locals tip is your best bet!
HAPPY HUNTING!
The greenstone pendant shown, was a gift from a young fisherman whom I had the pleasure to meet over a drink or two or three. He found and polished the stone with his own hands.
Thanks Joel, Megan loves it!
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