Necklaces

The Navajo necklaces above with a large upside-down horseshoe pendent hanging off the bottom are called Squash Blossom necklaces. These necklaces are considered one of the most important forms of Southwestern Native American jewelry due to the immense detail and important representation in them. The necklace itself is comprised of the squash blossom beads, the ornate beads that are hanging off the necklace. These pieces were heavily influenced by Spanish colonists within the Southwest region of the Americas during colonialism. The beads themselves were modeled after the buttons found on their pants—later similarly found on Mexican caballeros. Symbolizing the Spanish pomegranates, these beads cover the necklace drawing focus to the “naja,” or upside-down horseshoe pendant at the center of the necklace. 

"The Native America Story of the Squash Blossom.” Story of The Squash Blossom Necklaces, Native American Art. Web. www.rivertradingpost.com/squashblossom.htm.