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Peeking Bear Necklace

Fox turquoise bear by Eddington Hannaweeke

Moretti bird by Wayne Robbins

Natural turquoise, carnelian tusks

Old melons, Cornaline d'Aleppo and stone beads

Coral, seed beads, baby olive heishi

Sterling beads, findings

Love beads

Signed, dated

Length:  21" - 26.5" (53 cm - 67 cm)
Drop below center bead:  5" (13 cm)
Bear:  2.5" wide (6 cm)
Weight:  7.5 oz (212 gm)

Photo: Melinda Holden

Zuni artist Eddington Hannaweeke's bears are quite naturalistic, with sweet expressions. This one is crouched down, peeking out, with his head turned ever so slightly. He has bright inlaid coral eyes, and is padding through a thicket of coral berries. His head is up making him a hunting bear. The handmade glass bird by Wayne Robbins watches intently. The curious tusks are carnelian, no bears gave up their teeth for this necklace!

McManis (below) indicates the bear is one of the most important fetish animals throughout the Southwest. It is the protective animal of the West in Zuni tradition. It is given the attribute of introspection in The Medicine Cards. The treasure necklace contains turquoise which is considered to be one of the storm elements, its attribute is wholeness (Crystal Ally Cards). The large old Cornaline d'Aleppos are Venetian beads which first appeared in the Americas in the early 19th century.

The necklace strands are strung on cable for strength.

LOVE BEADS: This piece includes "love beads," beads given to me after the fire by friends and strangers. The necklace carries the energy of their loving concern.