#167: Row

I found this row bracelet in a dusty little Nevada town last year.  The deep blue-green of its turquoise stones reminds me of the Southwestern night sky in that moment just after the sun sets, the vastness illuminated just before everything goes dark.

The lady with whom I found it said she believed it to be a Zuni piece from the 1940’s.  I think it looks more like old Navajo, with its crude bezels and rough character.  It’s  the imperfections that make things special.

It wasn’t until the early 1970’s that Native American artisans were caused to stamp their pieces with their initials or silver quality.  If you’re looking for something old, remember this important bit as you go along your travels.

In Navajo symbolism the circle signifies life.  I’ve written this over and over but it always feels good to do it again: turquoise protects the body and the spirit, and brings us health and happiness.  Go on and find yourself a nice little piece.

I just received the happy news that I’ll be taking an impromptu trip out to New Mexico next week.  That blue-green Southwestern sky is all mine.  Land of Enchantment, here I come…