This adorable serpentine bear fetish choker necklace was crafted by the Zuni tribe in the 1970s. The small bear fetish decorates the sterling silver beads. It’s a great 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 as 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 fetish is 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 13 1/2" long, the fetish is 3/4" tall and 1/2" wide, and it weighs 8.85 grams. The box is for display only.
