Pounamu also called Maori-symbols called from New Zealand.

The Māori (/ˈmaʊri/; Māori pronunciation: [ˈmaːɔɾi], About this sound listen) are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. The Māori originated with settlers from eastern Polynesia, who arrived in New Zealand in several waves of canoe voyages at some time between 1250 and 1300 CE. Over several centuries in isolation, the Polynesian settlers developed a unique culture that became known as the "Māori", with their own language, a rich mythology, distinctive crafts and performing arts. Early Māori formed tribal groups, based on eastern Polynesian social customs and organisation. Horticulture flourished using plants they introduced, and later a prominent warrior culture emerged.

Nephrite is a mineral with a dense felted actinolite. It has the chemical composition Ca2 (Mg, Fe) 5 [(OH, F) (Si4O11)] 2. The name is derived from the Ancient Greek word nephros - kidney. Nephrite has been traditionally known, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds. Because of its toughness is nephrite suitable for the manufacture of tools. Later they made ornaments from there. In Babylon was nephrite particularly appreciated because they have magical powers ascribed. In China nephrite great mythological significance and used it in religious ceremonies. Even before the arrival of Columbus was in Central America very popular. According to the Sumerians was nephrite able to solve the unexpected circumstances. They claimed the kidney disease and renal colic can remedy. Nephrite is naturally more common than jadeite. Sometimes it forms large blocks. In Russia stones have been found more than five tons. In Burma's even a nefrietblok found 30 tons. Historical important deposits are located in China, around Khotan in Xinjiang province, in the Kunlun Mountains and around Kashgar. In Taiwan and Jordan come cat nefrieten for. In the United States nephrite is found in Brazil, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming and Alaska. In New Zealand are major deposits known. The Maori nephrite already won before the arrival of Europeans and well in Arakuara and the Wakapitu Lake. These stones are translucent and are considered the most beautiful nefrieten world Smaller occurrences have been demonstrated in Australia, Kazakhstan, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Ireland.

Nefrite