Squash Blossom Necklace
The squash blossom necklace is one of the most recognized forms of Native American jewelry.
This large form necklace with turquoise inset into heavy silver pieces features silver dangles that look like a squash blossom. These beautiful necklaces are highly sought after today.
The squash blossom necklace didn't emerge in it's current form until the late 1800's, although the crescent shaped centerpiece was worn in a simpler form much earlier. The necklace can have many variations, but always has the large crescent shaped piece in the middle with rows of beads up the sides. The side beads are what look like a squash blossom and give the necklace it's name and the crescent shaped piece is based on Spanish bridal ornamentation.
It is believed the necklace first was simply this crescent shape and evolved later on, when making fancy beads became popular, to what it is today.
The squash blossom necklace is an adornment still made by Navajo artists today. Set in sterling silver, it is traditionally decorated with turquoise but can also have coral, mother of pearl or onyx - or no stones at all!
Turquoise is the most popular of stones in a squash blossom necklace due to it's revered status in American Indian culture. Turquoise is considered to be a powerful healing stone that can help many areas of the body. It is said to make speaking easier and is reputed to help those who have trouble speaking in public as well as aiding in expressing oneself. As a healing stone, it can be used to remove toxins from the body such as poison, pollution, toxins from smoking etc... It is also thought to help asthma and infections. In general turquoise is used by new age healers to treat and strengthen the respiratory, digestive and skeletal systems.
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