19th century, Berber, Morocco
The silver protective charm (gris gris) is a classic Berber (Amazigh) talisman worn in headdresses and jewelry. It is a stylized hamsa (the protective hand against the evil eye ). You might notice it’s similarity to the Navajo Squash Blossom. That is because the Navajo squash blossom has its origins in this Moorish form. The trade beads were European made and traded all over the world. This combination is a not to the Plains Native Americans. We wove our finest cord to finish the piece.
One of a kind
Silver charm: 1 1/5 x 7/8″
Necklace length: 17.75″
A note about our woven cords. We weave these by hand, every one of them. Like all Jewels’ work no two are exact, as each of us. The work is labor intensive. When warmed to the skin the cord becomes more supple, conforms to the wearer, hangs at it should; the necklace transforms more than just a necklace. It becomes her or him.