How To Wear A Squash Blossom Necklace?

A squash blossom necklace is a traditional Native American piece of jewelry with a central pendant, typically in the shape of a flower or squash blossom, and a strand of silver beads with additional blossom-shaped pieces on either side of the pendant. The squash blossom is one of the most recognizable Native American jewelry styles. It has been around for quite some time and was a popular style during the bohemian fashion craze of the 1970s.

It is believed that the Navajo were the first tribe to use this style of silver bead necklace in the late 1800s. They learned and put their own spin on the design from Pueblo artists.

Beads

A squash blossom necklace is one of the most iconic Native American jewelry pieces. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they also carry a rich history that goes back many centuries.

These necklaces were originally crafted in silver by Zuni and Navajo artisans. They are traditional pieces of Native American jewelry that both men and women can wear.

Squash blossoms are a popular symbol of wealth in Native American cultures. They can be seen in early photographs of Native Americans. They are often used in ceremonial settings and were a part of everyday life for Native Americans, and they are still worn today.

The origins of the squash blossom can be traced to Spain, where both Plains Indians and Navajo artisans adopted it. Navajo silversmiths added turquoise to the squash blossom pendant called the Naja (NAH-zha) in the late 1800s, which is why these necklaces are sometimes referred to as “Navajo turquoise” or Navajo squash blossoms.

Turquoise is a stone that has been used for thousands of years in North America to represent sky and water, and it’s believed to bring fertility and health to a person. It is a powerful and symbolic stone that marries personal adornment with cultural expression and can be found in various shapes and sizes.

Suppose you are looking for a squash blossom necklace. In that case, it is important to find one made by an authentic Native American jeweler. Unfortunately, a large amount of counterfeit jewelry is on the market, and it can be difficult to tell if an item is genuine.

A good rule of thumb to determine if a necklace is authentic is to see if the jeweler’s hallmark is stamped on the back of the jewelry. Medicine Man Gallery publishes a list of Native American jewelry hallmarks so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your squash blossom necklace.

Another thing to consider when purchasing a squash blossom necklace is the quality of the beads. If the beads are poorly made or are not made from the best materials, they will not last very long.

Naja

Squash blossom necklaces are a cherished part of Native American jewelry culture. They can be worn by both men and women and are a coveted addition to any Native jewelry collection.

Squashing blossoms are made from silver beads and precious stones, such as turquoise. They are a common design found in Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi jewelry.

They were first crafted in the late 1800s by the Navajo tribe, but they soon spread to other Native groups. Dubin said they are still popular today and can be seen in many petroglyphs (rock art) from the Southwest.

The squash blossom design was likely borrowed from Spanish silver ornament. Still, it was also directly linked to the Native experience in the Southwest, where corn, beans, and squash were critical crops. Europeans also used pomegranates as decorative designs on their clothes, so it is possible that the pomegranate flower inspired the Navajo to create their version of a squash blossom in silver.

Eventually, the Navajo developed a tri-petal form of bead that became the staple for this type of jewelry. They were later followed by other tribes, such as the Zuni, who also applied turquoise to their style versions.

Najas, the horseshoe-like adornment at the bottom of the necklace, is also a crucial design component. The Naja is an inverted crescent shape, originally a symbol Navajos used to decorate their horse headstalls.

These adornments can be shaped into various shapes and sizes, including a large, circular design. Often they are embellished with precious natural stones, such as turquoise, but can also be formed into animal shapes or other designs.

Squash blossoms are also commonly paired with other southwestern-inspired Native American jewelry, such as bolo ties and hats. Combining textures and colors makes these pieces a wonderful way to add a southwestern touch to any outfit.

A great example of this is Miranda Lambert’s 2021 ACM Awards look, where she donned a supersize turquoise Squash Blossom and Naja necklace with her head-to-toe faded blue denim. She also added a simple silver necklace and a pair of earrings to complete her look.

Chain

You can wear a squash blossom necklace with a variety of outfits. This statement piece will look great with a simple dress or casual tee. It can also be layered with other chains for added style. You may want to opt for a larger-sized squash blossom necklace or one with stones if you prefer a more pronounced statement.

A Squash Blossom necklace is a beautiful piece of Native American jewelry with a rich history. The design was first created in the late 1870s and was popular among many tribes in the Southwest. However, the Navajo developed this particular style and named it the “squash blossom.”

Another great thing about this necklace is that it can be layered with other necklaces to add style. This necklace features two strands of silver beads and six turquoise squash blossoms. A single Naja crescent pendant is adorned with turquoise and sits front and center.

This sterling silver squash blossom necklace is a beautiful piece of Native American art that will bring a smile to anyone who sees it! You will be proud to wear it for years to come. The perfect way to show your love for Native American heritage!

Closure

Squash blossom necklaces are a staple of Native American jewelry. They’re often made from silver and often have a horseshoe-shaped pendant called a Naja at the bottom. The Naja is thought to ward off evil spirits, and if a turquoise gem is suspended from it, it’s also believed to represent a baby in the womb.

The squash blossom name has a bit of a question mark to it, and that’s because the design is a composite of several different beads, says Lois Sherr Dubin, author of many books about Native American jewelry, including “North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment.” However, she said the name might stem from one particular type of bead that Navajo artisans developed.

The Squash Blossom necklace is not a new design. It was created in the late 1870s or early 1880s by Native Americans who had made contact with European settlers in the region. Whether you’re looking for a larger necklace with stones or a smaller, mid-century “Box Bow” necklace with textured metal beads and fun charms, you will find the perfect squash blossom necklace in our collection. You’ll love wearing it for years to come! Remember to keep it clean and store it away when not in use.

Five Tips On How To Wear A Squash Blossom Necklace:

Choose the right neckline: Squash blossom necklaces work well with a range of necklines, but they are particularly suited to low-cut or v-neck tops that allow the necklace to sit above the neckline. This draws attention to the necklace and highlights its intricate design.

Keep it simple: Because squash blossom necklaces are often quite large and ornate, it’s best to keep the rest of your outfit simple. Avoid busy patterns or prints that could clash with the necklace, and opt for neutral colors that won’t compete with the silver and turquoise of the necklace.
Accessorize thoughtfully: If you want to wear additional jewelry, keep it understated. Simple stud earrings or a small silver bracelet can complement the necklace without overpowering it.
Consider your hairstyle: Squash blossom necklaces can be quite heavy, so it’s important to consider how you’ll wear your hair when styling the necklace. Consider wearing it up or in a sleek ponytail if you have long hair to avoid tangling the necklace.

Wear with confidence: Squash blossom necklaces are bold and unique jewelry that will turn heads. Wear your necklace confidently and let it be the centerpiece of your outfit.

FAQ’s

What does squash blossom necklace mean?

The Naja symbol, the striking focal point of the squash flower pattern, is thought to have originated in the Middle East, when the Moors brought horse shoe-shaped jewellery to Spain as a protection against the evil eye. The Navajo adopted the emblem after the Spanish conquistadors brought it to them.

Who wears squash blossom necklace?

The squash blossom necklace is regarded as one of the most important pieces in any collection of handcrafted Native American jewellery in the Southwest. It is also frequently acknowledged as having roots in Southwest jewellery traditions.

What is the bottom of a squash blossom necklace called?

The traditional squash blossom necklace has three separate components: plain round beads, round beads with “petals,” or petals, and the Naja, a horseshoe-shaped pendant at the bottom.

What is squash blossom good for?

In addition to stuffing and frying, squash blossoms can be used in a variety of ways. Vegetable stews, frittatas, various savoury veggie pies, pizza toppings, and quesadilla fillings can all benefit from their addition.