The History of the Navajo Squash Blossom Necklace


The classic Navajo squash blossom necklace has grown in popularity over the past years. Although it’s admiration in mainstream fashion has grown widely, the squash blossom necklace is a symbolic design with a history that surpasses over hundreds of years. 

What is a Squash Blossom Necklace?
An original squash blossom necklace is formed with silver and turquoise and entails round silver beads intermingled with beads that appear like they are blooming, all which lead down to a horse-shoe like pendant at the bottom called the Naja.

Origin of the Squash Blossom
The Navajo tribe was the first to adopt this design after encounters with the Spanish Mexicans that arrived at their land. The name ‘squash blossom’ originated by the signature beads found in the necklace, that spread out like a blossoming flower. 

The Naja
The Naja symbol was created as a talisman for protection, to ward off evil spirits. The Naja shape has also been known as an illustration of the womb, and when a squash blossom necklace has one turquoise piece suspended from the Naja, it is interpreted to be a representation of a child in the womb.

The Squash Blossom in Fashion
The squash blossom necklace style has not disappeared. Today the Navajo squash blossom necklace has developed past the traditional silver and turquoise. Squash blossom necklaces today have elements of gold diamonds. However, the original Native American squash blossom necklaces are made with silver and turquoise.

Handmade Native American Jewelry
At Palms Trading we offer a wide variety of authentic Navajo squash blossom necklaces. All our Native American jewelry is handmade by local Native American Indian artists. As a result, each squash blossom necklace we have in-store is unique and you won’t find someone else wearing something exactly like it.
 
Location: 1504 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

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