Measurements:  120 mm or 12 cm length by 30 mm or 3 cm length.

Smokey brown plaited wax cord adjustable to size.
Packaging: Black leather bound box with white inner pad.

A bone-carved breastplate with serrated edges carries strong symbolism of strength, protection, and ancestral authority. In te ao Māori, such a taonga is not just decorative — it represents spiritual guardianship, leadership, and the ability to withstand adversity.

Material: Bone (Iwi, Parāoa, Kau)

Bone (beef) is sacred — whether from whale (parāoa), beef (kau), or other sources — it holds Wairua (spirit) and is often associated with mana (prestige) and ancestral connection.

Carved bone is Tapu, often passed down or gifted as a gesture of deep respect and acknowledgment.

Serrated edges resemble the Niho (teeth) of tools or weapons, such as shark teeth or traditional Māori weapons like Patu or Tewhatewha.

Symbolises a warrior spirit, always prepared to defend what is sacred — whether Whānau, whenua (land), or tikanga (customs).

Niho Taniwha (Taniwha Teeth)

The serration is often linked to Niho Taniwha designs — triangles or teeth that represent strength, guardianship, and connection to ancestral protectors.

Taniwha are spiritual beings who dwell in rivers, lakes, or oceans — sometimes feared, always respected.

Resilience and Endurance

Serrated edges reflect the harshness of life and the ability to endure — much like a warrior's breastplate shows both beauty and battle-readiness.

This taonga protects the chest — the seat of emotion (ngākau) and spirit (wairua) — reinforcing inner strength.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Worn across the chest, this taonga shields the heart and lungs — the source of breath (hau) and soul (wairua).

It acknowledges one's role as a protector or leader, especially in times of transition, challenge, or leadership.

May also symbolize generational strength — the idea that those who came before endured hardships so we could carry their mana forward.

A bone breastplate with serrated edges is a symbol of warrior strength, spiritual protection, and ancestral guardianship. The serrations represent readiness, resilience, and connection to powerful forces like the Taniwha or the niho of traditional tools. Worn over the chest, this sacred taonga protects the heart and upholds the Mana of its wearer.