One of the most impressive pieces of Southwestern Native American jewelry has made its way into the spotlight again as a staple in any bohemian or southwest style wardrobe. This accessory has made an appearance in numerous photoshoots and editorial layouts. As well as a key statement in Leah Hoff's Nashville Wedding (pictured above, link below)-- wouldn't you love investing in a signature item like the squash blossom, instead of a bridesmaid dress?! We think yes!
“Turquoise is closely associated with Navajo jewelry, but it was not until 1880 that the first turquoise was known to be set in silver. Turquoise became much more readily available in ensuing decades. Coral and other semi-precious stones came into common use around 1900.
One of the most important forms of Navajo and Southwestern Native American jewelry, is the Squash Blossom Necklace. Most are made of a string of plain round silver beads, interspersed with more stylized “squash blossoms”, and feature a pendant, or “naja”, hung from the center of the strand. The squash blossom beads are copied from the buttons which held together the pants worn by the Spanish, and later, Mexican caballeros. These buttons represent - and are modeled after - pomegranates. Their identification as “squash blossoms”, which they closely resemble, is an understandable, and often repeated, error. The naja, which resembles an upside-down horse shoe, completes the design. Their origin can be found a continent, and several hundred years away, as a traditional part of Spanish horse halters.”
Photo Sources: 1 The Lane // 2 Sweet & Spark // 3 SRTA-PEPIS // 4 Imogene + Willie // 5 Spell // 6 SRTA-PEPIS // 7 Spell // 8 District of Chic // 9 This Beadiful World
