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Jewelry of North American Nations: Cherokee![]() The Cherokees' heritage is evident in the style of their jewelryThe most commonly known locale that people connect with the Cherokee Indians are the states of North and South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. However, before they settled in the Southeastern United States, it is believed that they came from the Great Lakes area where the Iroquois lived. The Cherokees nowadays are the largest Indian tribe with an estimated more than 300,000 members. They are divided into several different tribes that organize themselves with their own government. The Cherokee Nation is one of the larger tribe and they live in Oklahoma. Check out this website for more info about the Cherokee Indian nation Like in so many other parts of the world, the original forms of jewelry made by the Cherokee involved beads, shells, and nuts; and with the invention of metals, copper, gold and silver became another source material to make jewelry. Much of the Cherokee jewelry incorporates turquoise, a blue or green gemstone that several other Indian tribes use to make artful necklaces, rings, belt buckles or the like. Cherokee jewelry items were very popular for trading with the European settlers during the early 17th century. In fact, their bead-work, primarily bags, developed into such fine art, it was sought after by many including chiefs of other Indian tribes. Cherokee Bead-work and Turquoise JewelryBead-work has remained one of Cherokees’ best-known expressions of art. The red and black swirl is a popular motif, as it represents the sun’s power and fire. Other motifs for Cherokee jewelry include traditional symbols and letters, arrowheads, wolves and eagles. Many of the Cherokee jewelry items are made of sterling silver and incorporate gemstones, frequently turquoise. Here are some examples of Cherokee jewelry: (photos compliments of www.cherokeejewelry.com) ![]() ![]() Sterling Silver Cherokee Journey Earrings Sterling Silver Cherokee Eagle Pendant
Eagles are an important symbol in native American culture as they are recognized as a messenger of the creator, and are likewise relied upon to communicate our actions to the creator. Not surprisingly, the eagle is a very popular motif for jewelry across various types and makes, not just native American jewelry. Eagles represent strength and freedom and though more often found on mens rings, pins and belt buckles, they are also suitable for the ladies as well. Here is an example of a mens Black Hills Gold eagle ring with an onyx inset made by Landstroms: The MR477 mens eagle ring above also has a women’s version; both feature the signature pink and green grape leaves on its sides, and is a prime piece of jewelry made by Landstroms. While Black Hills Gold jewelry was not originate by native Americans, it is a 100% American art form and is still made today, by hand, in the black Hills of South Dakota. If you've enjoyed this article, please link back to us at:
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Please Read: COVID-19 UpdateThe current COVID-19 situation continues to cause production slowdowns and questionable shipping services, even for normally in-stock items. Meanwhile, out of stock items that need complete fabrication will not be able to ship until after the factory shutdown in January. We promise to do our best to get your orders processed and shipped as quickly as possible. Thank you to everyone for your patience - we will keep you updated here as changes occur.
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