Image

Earring with a twine-like hook connecting to two loops of flat, circular turquoise beads, with kernel-like red beads at each loop’s base.
Close-up of the earring’s two loops of flat, circular, uneven turquoise beads, with kernel-like red beads at each loop’s base. Visible are golden flakes on the turquoise beads.
Earring in storage. Its twine-like hook connects to two loops of flat, circular turquoise beads, with kernel-like red beads at each loop’s base. A label attached to the hook reads ‘77A No.4 Navajo Ear Drop 16.065’.
Earring in storage. Its twine-like hook connects to two loops of flat, circular turquoise beads, with kernel-like red beads at each loop’s base. A label attached to the hook reads ‘77A No.4 Navajo Ear Drop 16.065’.
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Unknown Maker, Diné (Navajo)

Earrings

Description

Maker

Unknown Maker, Diné (Navajo)

Culture

Diné (Navajo), Native North American

Title

Earrings

Year

before 1916

Medium

Materials/Techniques

Techniques

Materials

coral

Dimensions

Length: 8.3 cm (3 1/4 inches)

Credit / Object Number

Credit

Gift of Mrs. Jesse H. Metcalf

Object Number

16.065

Type

Exhibition History

Exhibition History

Being and Believing in the Natural World
Perspectives from the Ancient Mediterranean, Asia, and Indigenous North America
Oct 22, 2022 – Jun 04, 2023

Label copy

Skillfully worked jade objects, such as the knife and disc in the case at left, have been found in elite tombs in China. Thousands of years ago, they likely held ceremonial meaning. Vibrant stones like malachite, said to capture the luminosity of the sun and moon, were also treasured in China. 

Ancient Greeks loved gold jewelry, often incorporating plant and animal motifs in their designs. They also transformed readily available materials into glass beads for necklaces. 

Since ancient times, Indigenous people in what is now the Southwest US have mined turquoise. Diné people believe turquoise provides spiritual protection. 

—WC | GB | SB

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Image use

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This object is in the Public Domain and available under a CC0 1.0 Universal (CC0 1.0) Public Domain Dedication

Tombstone

Unknown Maker, Diné (Navajo)
Earrings, before 1916
Turquoise, coral, and cotton string
Length: 8.3 cm (3 1/4 inches)
Gift of Mrs. Jesse H. Metcalf 16.065

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