Vintage Squash Blossom Necklace with Zuni Frog

This may be one of our favorite squash blossom necklaces we've seen in a long time. The Zuni frog fetish and its setting is actually a brooch/pin that can be detached and worn separately by opening the ring attached to the naja. The sterling silver setting resembles a lily pad and sits in the center of the naja.  It was carved from mother of pearl with inlaid turquoise and red coral and was probably made by Georgette Quam.  There are a total of twenty-six squash blossoms that are strung on two strands of hand-made sterling silver beads. The beads end in cones and a hook and eye clasp. This older necklace was part of an older collection of Native American jewelry. More about frog fetishes and najas below.

Size: 24" Long - Naja 2.125" H x 2.375" W - Frog Setting 1.25" H x 1.5" W - Squash blossoms .875" Long

Najas are a prominent symbol in Navajo jewelry and are always the center piece in squash blossom necklaces.  I was told they are a feminine symbol, and their crescent shape represents the arms of a matriarch and the generations of the past and future.  It symbolizes ease of movement, paths of least resistance for the family, even during challenging times.  There is a sense of open arms in the shape of the naja that is soothing.  Some najas have hands of friendship on each end.

Frogs begin life in the water as tadpoles, grow legs and, afterward can be on land or water.  They go through a profound transition and are related to water and land.  Female frogs lay many eggs at once and are associated with fertility.  The frogs are known to sing before the rains come in Zuni Pueblo.  During droughts people will bury frog carvings in the Earth to invite the rain to come.