This fun bird fetish necklace was crafted by the Zuni tribe in the 1970s. The tiny, detailed birds rest between disc-shaped, heishi silver beads, usually made by the Santo Domingo tribe. The small birds are slightly curved and even feature tiny eyes. This is an excellent single-strand necklace to wear alone or layered.
Fetish necklaces are sacred adornments for the Zuni and Pueblo tribes. Each carving depicts an animal native to the region and embodies its spirit. Offerings of turquoise, feathers, and shells are incorporated into the piece, and some wearers even go so far as to "feed" their animals corn pollen. The fetishes are believed to help the wearer with issues related to the body or mind.
The necklace is in very good vintage condition with minimal wear. The birds are not damaged, and the silver has a moderate patina layer that can be polished upon request. There are no marks or stamps.
The necklace is 24" long, 3/4" wide, and weighs 16.93 grams.
