The tiki, a Polynesian symbol transformed into jewelry

A piece of jewelry often has multiple meanings, between spiritual value, custom or even lucky charm, there are many pieces of jewelry that we do not want to part with.

Here, it is the Tiki jewel that we are putting in the spotlight, we are going to talk about its origins and its representations .

What is Tiki?

When we hear the word “Tiki”, we think of the totem, this spiritual object present in several traditional societies around the world which serves as an emblem for a clan or tribe.

The tiki is a bit the same thing in the end, it is the emblem of the Marquesas Islands and occupies a very important place in the local culture. They are mainly found in the islands of the Polynesian triangle.

Distant origins

Known as “ Moai ”, these statues are sculptures in stone or wood that were created in the 13th century.

The tiki is the symbol of a mythical character who gave birth to the first human beings, the meaning of which is deeply rooted in Polynesian mythology.

Polynesians revere this statue, which is said to be the heir of “manao” or “mana” meaning a strong energy between human beings and the universe. They can be found in many homes and in the heart of the islands of the Polynesian triangle.

How to recognize it?

The tiki carved from stone or wood is represented wide with a big mouth, it has its hands folded on its stomach and its legs bent. His facial expressions are often menacing, his imposing head is synonymous with power and his immense eyes are knowledge. These are most often male sculptures, intended to protect the inhabitants. In Tahiti, a tiki placed in front of a house protects the home from misfortune. Their spiritual power

An art for sculptors

Tikis are sculptures carefully carved by artisans passionate about art and their culture. First, these statues were made with stone, then other materials arrived such as wood or coral.

Tikis inspire sculptors who shape these statues in different ways depending on the material used. The artists shape them as they wish while keeping certain particularities: big eyes, a huge mouth on a disproportionate face. In addition, the tiki must maintain a posture reminiscent of the “Haka”, a dance from the South Pacific.

A symbol with multiple meanings

A sacred statue which is a good luck charm for the Polynesians and remains a protective symbol if it is not harmed. However, some fear the tiki because it represents ancient Polynesian gods and ancestors.

We also speak of the “Hei tiki” from the French “tiki crown”, a jewel worn by men and women with a spiritual value of the amulet type .

Later, this symbol will become a pendant bringing a particular meaning such as tenderness, strength, wisdom or even a smile. This pendant wards off bad energies and, according to Maori custom, it is passed down from generation to generation and can symbolize fertility.