3 Strand Necklace of 87 Bird Fetishes

The 87 birds were carved using files and a grinding wheel.  There are pieces of tumble-polished white pearl shell intersperced throughout.

The olive shell heishi is Santo Domingo made about the same time and probably traded for.

Sterling silver cones, hand made of sheet, were used to gather the 3 strands.  Drawn sterling wire was fabricated into chain with a hook and eye to finish and join this necklace at the back.  

Fetishes have been a part of Southwestern native cultures for thousands of years.  They are considered "spirit gifts" when found in the natural shape of a stone or piece of shell.  Sometimes the one who chances upon a stone that looks like a bear, will do a little to further enhance that appearance.  In this tradition of "less is more", the artist has given basic shape and "life" to a flock of 87 birds !!!

The best book to explain the steps in creating Zuni cluster jewelry is Oscar Branson's Indian Jewelry Making. Volume II. Look at page 48 illustrating each step to create a cluster bracelet.