572

Navajo Heishi Bead Choker Necklace, ca. 1960-1980

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:50.00 USD Estimated At:150.00 - 300.00 USD
Navajo Heishi Bead Choker Necklace, ca. 1960-1980
Offered to you in this lot is a Navajo Native American Indian Heishi Bead Choker Necklace, circa 1960-1980. Featuring turquoise, shell, and other stones. The name "Heishi" is from the Santo Domingo word meaning 'shell', and various types of shell, cut, drilled, ground, and polished are used to make the cylindrically shaped beads. It is considered the oldest form of jewelry in New Mexico, predating the introduction of metals. The beads were believed to have protective properties and were often worn as amulets or talismans to ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm. Additionally, heishi beads were used in many rituals and ceremonies, often as a way of invoking the blessings of the gods and spirits. This Heishi choker necklace is in very nice preserved condition, hook & eye closure. Measures 16"L.