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Native American Necklace
The jewelry worn by the various Native American tribes varies, but the materials
used are similar in all of them. Necklaces and arm bracelets were perhaps
the most common of all jewelry in ancient times. But today, there is a whole
range of jewelry available - from necklaces to rings to earrings – many
of them custom made. Earlier, a Native American necklace consisted of beads,
shells, copper, silver, ivory, amber, or turquoise. Glass beads were not used
in these necklaces since it was the Europeans who brought glass beads to America.
It was also after the arrival of the Europeans that metalwork developed and
diversified.
A Native American necklace was a valuable possession, particularly in
trade. Another kind of Native American necklace is the one made from hammering
and etching copper into pendants. The pendant might have silver inlay or
a turquoise embedded into it. Then it would just be threaded onto a chain
and lo behold! you have a necklace. The designs of a Native American necklace
depend upon the tribe that is making and wearing it. Each tribe has its
own tradition and tastes regarding all kinds of jewelry. A Native American
necklace makes for a very unique and beautiful gift.
If you want to be sure that you are getting the real thing crafted by a tribesman
or Native American artisan, you should buy the jewelry from a location where
these people work. Often things sold over the internet or through middlemen
may not really be what they claim to be. In order to have no doubts as to
the authenticity of the necklace, check with local agencies dealing
with Native American art. They will be able to provide you with a list of
locations where you can find an original Native American necklace. You might
also get the opportunity to watch an artisan at work.
Joseph Paige © 2006
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