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This is a large vintage Zuni Bear Pendant and Chain crafted with sterling silver with inlayed turquoise, onyx, coral, & spiny oyster . The Zuni Indian Bear symbolizes the most powerful animal who is a Guardian of the Earth. Native. Americans believe if you place a small amount of corn meal under the nose of a Zuni Bear image when. you leave your home to protect it while away.
Pendant marked EF 2” x 1.25” ,chain is approximately 22” long,Total weight 32g
The Zunis are famous for a particular type of stonework called inlay. Here stones are worked and then fit together, sometimes side by side, called stone-to-stone, or with silver channels in between, known as channel inlay. The Zunis do not cast the silver. Each piece is meticulously fabricated. The predominant colors and stones used in traditional Zuni inlay are turquoise, red coral, black jet, and white mother of pearl. Symbolically, red represents Mother Earth and turquoise Father Sky. The black and white of the other stones is a further representation of dualities. Other stones that may be used in Zuni jewelry are pink coral, abalone, green snail shell, malachite, orange or purple spiny oyster, melon shell, mother of pearl, and fossilized ivory. Most materials used in Zuni fetishes and jewelry are not indigenous to Zuni Pueblo.
This bear is an large and excellent example of the colors and intricate designs used by the Zuni.The hand hammered silver chain is substantial and unique.The total weight of these pieces is 32 g
