Native American Fetish Necklace

Length: 26 inches
Pendant width: 1.25"
Pendant height: 1" (approx.)

This is a fetish necklace with stone fetishes, natural heishi and natural turquoise heishi. A single strand finished off with sterling silver cones and sterling hook and eye clasp. Delicate, minimalist indigenous necklace. Traditional tribal necklace. Spiritual jewelry.
Zuni fetish native necklace. Handcrafted by native american artisan.

Key Aspects of Zuni Fetish Necklace Artistry

In Zuni culture, a fetish is a small, carefully carved animal or figure that embodies the spirit of the animal or natural force it represents. These carvings are believed to hold special powers and are used in various rituals, ceremonies, and as protective talismans.

1. Material selection: Zuni fetish necklaces are made from a variety of materials, including semi-precious stones, shells, and wood. Some of the most commonly used materials include turquoise, jet, serpentine, and mother-of-pearl.

2. Carving techniques: Zuni fetish carvings showcase remarkable skill and attention to detail. Artists use both traditional and modern tools to create intricate, lifelike animal figures, often with exceptional realism and fluidity.

3. Symbolism: Each animal fetish used in a Zuni necklace carries its own unique symbolism, based on the Zuni people‘s spiritual beliefs and their relationship with the natural world. For example, the bear symbolizes strength and introspection, while the eagle represents vision and spiritual guidance.

4. Design and composition: A Zuni fetish necklace is carefully designed to harmoniously blend the various fetishes and beads, creating a visually striking piece that carries the spiritual energy of each individual carving.


I think this specific necklace contains badger, bear, bison, frog, turtle and eagle which has the following significance:
- Eagle (Guardian of the Upper Regions):Direction of the Home of the High
Great Power and Balance, Dignity with Grace, Ability to See the “Big Picture, Grace Achieved Through Knowledge and Hard Work, Intuitive and Creative Spirit, Respect for the Boundaries of the Regions, Connection with Higher Truths

- Bear (Guardian of the West): Direction of the Home of the Waters
Introspection (self-examination), Strength in the Face of Adversity, Healing, Introversion (withdrawal from the world), Solitude, Change, Management of Transitions, Communication Between Humans and Spirit

-Badger (Guardian of the South): Direction of the Place of the Beautiful Red
Aggressiveness, Single-mindedness, Antidote to Passivity or Victimization, Passion, Persistence in the Service of a Mission, Control, Groundedness and Knowledge of the Earth

- Turtle: Symbol of the Earth (“Turtle Island), Connection With the Center, Self-reliance, Tenacity, Nonviolent Defense, Skilled Navigator

- Frog: Our Primordial Cousin, A Reminder of Common Bonds With All of Life, Singer of Songs That Celebrate the Most Ancient Watery Beginnings

- Deer (Bison/Buffalo): Ability to Sacrifice for the Higher Good, Grace and Appreciation for the Beauty of Balance, Moderation, Understanding of Whats Necessary for Survival, Power of Gratitude and Giving