Bracelet c. 1910

This Navajo bracelet features a striking turquoise stone set in silver, a combination resonating with profound symbolism. The turquoise, often seen as a bridge between earth and sky, embodies protection, healing, and good fortune in many Native American cultures. Notice how the silverwork around the stone mimics twisted ropes; this echoes the sacred, life-sustaining cord. The dynamic reappearance of the cord motif is fascinating: from ancient Celtic knotwork to the entwined serpents of the Caduceus, it symbolizes connection and cyclicality. These symbols are not merely decorative; they carry the weight of ancestral memory. The turquoise, reminiscent of the vast, open sky, taps into a deep psychological need for protection and hope. This bracelet is more than adornment; it is a tangible link to a rich cultural heritage. It embodies an emotional landscape where the natural world intertwines with spiritual meaning. Its symbols represent a continuum, resurfacing in diverse forms across time, perpetually renewing their significance.