Colorful Zuni Carved Fetish Necklace

A colorful Zuni fetish necklace featuring a menagerie of creatures, strung on a strand of heishi beads. Birds, mammals, and reptiles are carved from shell and stone. The turtle is particularly adorable. The white shell heishi beads are studded with bright orangle coral beads and turquoise tabs. The necklace is finished with the traditional sterling silver cones and a hook and eye clasp. This piece feels special; fun, with a vital energy around it. Circa 1970.

Zuni fetishes depict animals such as the wolf, badger, bear, mountain lion, eagle, mole, frog, deer, ram, and others. In the cosmology of the Zuni and neighboring tribes, each animal is believed to have inherent powers or qualities that may aid the owner.

Details.....The necklace is 23" long, the heishi beads measure 5mm, the creatures range from .66" to 1.10" long. In Very Good Vintage Condition. You should always expect some wear on vintage and antique jewels, we consider it part of the charm.

Item #N8911