Navajo jeweler, Ervin Begay, made these shiny sterling silver post earrings. The inner shadowbox has been oxidized to give it a black appearance which makes the bear claws stand out. Turquoise is set in the paw with a hand-stamped sun rays above. More about bears below.
Size: 1" H x .75" W
Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo. They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months. In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.