Spiny Oyster Shell Naja Pendant FJP2721

RAINDROPS are seen frequently throughout Native American jewelry. Sterling silver drops or "raindrops" are a traditional design element. They can be smooth and highly polished or they can be starlike and oxidized.

TWISTED WIRE metalworking is a very old technique used by many Southwestern tribes. It can be found in both vintage and modern pieces.

NAJA  Meaning "crescent" in Navajo the Naja pendant can be traced across many cultures spanning from Native American to Greek. The Naja symbol can be seen in everything from jewelry to horse bridles and incorporates multiple meanings across many cultures. Typically found adorned Squash Blossom necklaces, Naja pendants can also be worn solo with beads or chains.

SPINY OYSTER SHELL Spiny Oyster Shell is often inlaid or used as cabochons in Southwest style jewelry. The color combination of Spiny Oyster and turquoise is as old as the human love for adornment.  Coming all the way from the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Spiny Oyster Shell is most commonly seen in orange, red and purple. The more strident the color, the more expensive the shell is.  Red and purple shells are found a much greater depth than the brilliant oranges and are rare and more expensive.