Authentic Native American, handmade, Cedar Juniper Berry seed and Turtle pendant necklace. Cedar beads, colorful glass seed beads (size 11/0), round silver beads (6mm) and a charm are strung with jewelry wire and closed with lobster claw clasp. Navajo legend says Cedar beads, also known as "Ghost Beads," will keep evil spirits and bad dreams away. For example, it is customary for Navajo mothers to place strung cedar beads on/near their traditional cradle boards used by their infants. By season, Navajo and Ute Indians harvest cedar seeds in the southwestern U.S.A. which is a long and arduous process. The season's yield depends on the amount of rainfall received during the year. The Indians carefully select the seeds which have had their core previously eaten by ants which is evidenced by a single hole in the seed. The Indians clean the hallow seeds and puncture it to form the second hole, thereby creating a "bead," through which the wire thread is placed. The Turtle is sacred for Native Americans, symbolizing Mother Earth, longevity, perseverance and protection. * Charm: Charm is secured and fastened with wire twist. Charm style may vary depending on my supply. Charm is turquoise colored. * Silver Beads: Variations are possible, depending on my supply but the results will be similar to the photo. * Necklace sizes: Available sizes listed below. The complete length is measured from tip-to-tip, including the clasp. If you want a specific size however, please email me your request and I will happily make it for you. 14 inches - $18.00 16 inches - $20.00 18 inches - $22.00 20 inches - $24.00 22 inches - $26.00 24 inches - $28.00 26 inches - $30.00 28 Inches - $32.00 Necklace comes in a jute-tied jewelry gift box, complete with a card which describes the necklace, i.e. the cedar beads and the charm. Gift wrapping available - just let me know what the occasion is along with other details. More jewelry by NativeBeadworkGifts: https://www.etsy.com/shop/nativebeadworkgifts
