Also called the “Naja” by the Native American tribes that make these stunning jewelry pieces, squash blossom silver turquoise necklaces have a rich history that extends hundreds of years and crosses multiple cultures to bring something new to the world of fashion and art. The crescent-shaped design is meant to mimic the squash blossom plant that is heavily featured in Southwest art.
The origins of this jewelry piece can actually be traced back to the Middle Ages, where the people of Northwestern Africa occupied Spanish lands for a number of years. In that time, the Spanish adopted the symbol that was traditionally worn as a bridle for a warrior’s horse. The symbol was believed to protect the horse from harm in battle.
When the Spanish traveled to the new land a few hundred years later in the 19th century, Native Americans traded and learned how to work with precious metals to make jewelry. One of the designs that the Spanish imparted on the Southwestern tribes was the “Naja” or squash blossom necklace.
Today, the squash blossom silver turquoise necklace is seen as a Native American art. Taking the stones and metals from the surrounding area, Native American artisans continued to add their own cultural flair to the piece as a whole, producing something completely different.
It wasn’t until the early 20th century that the design was adapted for people to wear as necklaces and much later for people to recognize the art on a large public scale.
These pieces are the epitome of art and culture. The turquoise stones that run the length of the necklace symbolize the petals of the main crescent pendant that stand out as the largest piece of the necklace.
Squash blossom silver turquoise necklaces are more than just an accessory, but also a window into the history of other cultures and a collaboration of creativity.