Zuni Purple Spiny Oyster Bird Fetish Necklace & Earrings Set, 3-Strand, c.1970s View Watchlist >
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Lot # HJ122
System ID # 23895090
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Zuni Purple Spiny Oyster Bird Fetish Necklace & Earrings Set, 3-Strand, c.1970s
A vibrant Zuni three-strand fetish necklace with matching earrings, crafted from rare purple spiny oyster shell and sterling silver. The necklace features hand-carved bird fetishes, each detailed with stylized beaks and wings, interspersed with heishi beads cut from the same spiny oyster material for perfect harmony of color and texture. Sterling silver spacer beads are placed near the terminal cones, creating a refined transition to the clasp. The birds vary in scale, with the largest measuring approx. 0.63 in and the smallest about 0.43 in.
The purple spiny oyster shell displays a remarkable natural palette—ranging from soft lavender to deep violet with white and rose marbling—characteristic of its deep-water origin in the Sea of Cortez. These natural variations, including subtle striations and pits, are prized by collectors as evidence of authenticity and age. In Zuni tradition, birds symbolize freedom and serve as carriers of prayers, enhancing both the beauty and spiritual resonance of this piece.
The necklace terminates in hand-wrought sterling silver cones with a traditional hook clasp. The matching earrings, suspended from sterling French hook posts, echo the necklace with carved spiny oyster birds framed by shell heishi. Dating to the 1970s, this complete set exemplifies the artistry and symbolism of Zuni fetish carving.
Details
- Origin: Zuni Pueblo, Southwest
- Date: c.1970s
- Materials: Sterling silver & natural purple spiny oyster shell
- Birds: Numerous hand-carved spiny oyster birds
- Largest bird: approx. 0.63 in (16 mm)
- Smallest bird: approx. 0.43 in (11 mm)
- Heishi: Hand-cut from the same spiny oyster as the birds
- Spacers: Sterling silver beads near cones
- Strands: 3
- Cones & clasp: Sterling silver cones with traditional hook clasp
- Earrings: Sterling silver French hook posts with spiny oyster bird carvings and shell heishi
- Workmanship: Traditional Zuni fetish carving, hand-drilled and strung
Dimensions & Specifications
- Necklace length: Approx. 23 in (58.4 cm)
- Overall weight: 66.4 g (2.34 oz)
- Earring length: Approx. 2 in (5 cm) including hooks
Condition
Good vintage condition, with natural variations and inclusions in the spiny oyster shell. Light tarnish to the silver; polishing left to buyer’s preference. Strands secure and earrings intact.
An outstanding Zuni purple spiny oyster bird fetish necklace and earring set, distinguished by rare coloration, carved shell heishi, sterling silver details, and cultural symbolism. A highly collectible mid-20th-century example, offered from a respected New Mexico Native American jewelry collection.
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