Native American people are known for many wonderful talents and useful skills. One of the most loved artistic expressions of the Native American people is their incredible jewelry making skill. For over a hundred years one of the most popular types of Native American jewelry has been the turquoise squash blossom necklace. This necklace has a unique Native American design and a unique history as well.
History of the Turquoise Squash Blossom Necklace
The turquoise squash blossom necklace began to make an appearance in the Southwest around 1880. Following the arrival of Spanish settlers that introduced silversmithing to the area, Navajo smiths began to incorporate silver into their traditional turquoise squash blossom necklaces. The Spanish wanted to understand the meaning behind the turquoise squash blossom necklace design. It is understood that the design reflected the local agriculture of the time which included squash. There are other opinions concerning the meaning behind the design of the turquoise squash blossom necklace, but this seems the most logical.
In the late 1960s and 1970s turquoise squash blossom necklaces made a comeback as part of the bohemian fashion statements of the time. Native American jewelry creators were making turquoise squash blossom necklaces as quickly as they were sold. As a result of this turquoise squash blossom necklace boom, there were thousands of these necklaces produced. Many of the turquoise squash blossom necklaces of this era are still around today.
Today, turquoise squash blossom necklaces are enjoyed for their fashionable elegance as well as for tribal ceremonies. This is one piece of jewelry that is at home on the streets of New York or in the desert of New Mexico. Many turquoise squash blossom necklaces are rather large. These are usually used during tribal ceremonies among the Native American people.
There is a strong desire among the Native American people to preserve their beautiful jewelry making artistry. As a result of this, the art of making turquoise squash blossom necklaces is being passed on to a new generation. The creation and marketing of turquoise squash blossom necklaces provide economic stimulation for many Native American reservations as well as providing a lively hood for many Native American artists.
Not only are turquoise squash blossom necklaces sold in abundance in shops throughout the country, but thanks to the internet, Native American artists can now reach even more customers with their beautiful turquoise squash blossom necklaces. An original, Native American turquoise squash blossom necklace is a very special piece of jewelry to add to any collection.