Bear Paw Dangle Earrings

Navajo jeweler, Leta Parker, made these iconic bear paw post earrings.  The bright blue turquoise stone sits in a shadowbox, and the paws are sawed out of the silver.

Size: 1.675" H (includes wires) x .5" 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.