What are the parts of a squash blossom necklace?
While the entire necklace has taken its name from one type of bead, the classic squash blossom necklace actually has three distinct parts: the plain round beads; the round beads with the “petals,” so to speak; and the horseshoe-like pendant at the bottom called the Naja.
What is the Naja on a squash blossom necklace?
The squash blossom as a design concept originated with the Navajo. They were the first Southwest tribe to utilize the design of the edible gourd, an important source of sustenance. The naja is also representative of the womb; a single nugget of turquoise suspended from the pendant symbolizes a child growing within.
What is a squash necklace?
The Squash Blossom Necklace has been interpreted by many artists and has taken many forms over the centuries, but typically features round silver beads, interspersed with beads that have a flared side like that of a blooming flower, with a single centered horseshoe-shaped pendant called a Naja.
Why is it called squash blossom necklace?
Squash blossom beads are named (“the beads that spread out”) for their likeness to an actual squash or pomegranate blossoms, although sometimes the design does not actually incorporate the ‘beads that spread out’. Early on, the beads used were rounded and simple. Sometimes dimes and quarters were used.
What does a Naja mean?
crescent
Naja Symbol Meaning The word “naja” is the Navajo word for “crescent”. Navajo Indian silversmiths began incorporating the naja design into their jewelry. The Navajo were the main Indian tribe that made the najas, but they were also made by some Pueblo tribes as well.
What does Naja mean in Hebrew?
What is the meaning of the name Naja? The name Naja is primarily a female name of Arabic origin that means Rescue, Escape.
What is the meaning of the Naja?
Naja Symbol Meaning The word “naja” is the Navajo word for “crescent”. Navajo Indian silversmiths began incorporating the naja design into their jewelry. The Navajo were the main Indian tribe that made the najas, but they were also made by some Pueblo tribes as well.