The Whenua Ring from Vaune Mason is so named because it was carved in memory of the rolling hills around where she grew up. Whenua is a Māori word that is rich with meaning - whenua is land, ground, territory or domain, as well as placenta or afterbirth.
The rolling hills around Muriwai Beach in West Auckland where Vaune Mason spent her childhood were full of the creatures of her imagination. The sun curving around the hills in the morning as she rode the school bus to the local primary school made her dream of the land being like a blanket cradling the lakes and creeks where she swam, and possibly taniwha who might live, deep under the waters.
This ring is speckled with different toned sapphires and is solid sterling silver.
It is a size O and is available to be made to order in different sizes with different stones - each ring will be slightly unique.
Vaune Mason is based on the Kāpiti coast. Her detailed carved animals are reproduced in glowing bronze and silver, and every now and then, in recycled native timbers, stone or bone. Vaune also loves to make beautiful be-jewelled pieces that look worthy of a treasure hunters' hoard.
Mason & Collins are passionate supporters of handmade NZ jewellery. In our webstore you can find blisteringly hot contemporary jewellery that’s uncomplicated and made for everyday wear.
Our artists are all small scale artisan producers of quality jewellery in a range of styles and materials. Find your classic staples of solid sterling silver and gold rings, earrings and necklaces produced by amazing crafts people in small studios around NZ. Or be daring and bold, choose one-of-a-kind pieces that really capture your unique fashion sense. Recycled plastic, repurposed timbers, stone, bone and paua shell are a fun and topical addition to your jewellery collections. Our physical gallery based in our Wellington jewellery studio has more jewellery available so if you’re visiting Wellington or local to the city - pop on over and add to your bling with assistance from our wonderful staff.
Because all our jewellery is individually handmade no two pieces are identical.