Built with solid 10 mm nephrite greenstone and black agate beads, this 50 cm necklace has a bold, grounded feel that sits comfortably on the chest. The contrast of deep green and glossy black gives it a clean, confident look — something that works just as well with a T-shirt as it does with a shirt and jacket. Durable brass and alloy fasteners keep everything secure for everyday wear. See my other listings for some more styles.

I don’t make jewellery for profit — it’s simply something I enjoy. For every piece sold, $5 goes to a NZ charity like SPCA, HUHA, St John, or the Rescue Helicopters. Every necklace helps someone else.

A Stone with a Story and a Journey The greenstone in this piece comes from Taiwan — an important part of the wider Austronesian story. Many researchers believe the ancestors of Maori began their long migration from this region, eventually navigating across the Pacific to Aotearoa. Wearing this stone is a reminder of that shared heritage of exploration, endurance, and connection across the ocean.

It isn’t Aotearoa pounamu, but it shares the same strength, natural beauty, and rich green tones — making it a durable, affordable option for men who want something meaningful without the premium price tag.

The Science Behind the Strength What makes these stones appealing isn’t just the look — it’s the geology behind them. Nephrite greenstone is unbelievably tough. Its structure is made of tiny interlocking fibres formed deep in the Earth’s crust under immense pressure. This gives it a density and durability that you can feel the moment you pick it up. It’s one of the strongest natural materials used in jewellery, which is why it has been valued for tools, weapons, and adornments for thousands of years.

Black agate, on the other hand, is a microcrystalline quartz — clean, solid, and naturally smooth. Formed inside ancient volcanic rocks, its deep black colour brings weight and balance to the piece. Together, the stones create a strong visual contrast and a sense of calm steadiness.