MATERIALS:
Sterling silver, real Turquoise and Coral.
MEASUREMENTS:
Post earrings measure approximately 3/4" long and 1/2" widest point.
DESCRIPTION:
There is nothing at all average about this beautiful pair of earrings! This piece of Native American jewelry is Zuni hand made by artist Effie Calavaza, out of genuine sterling silver, real Turquoise stones and Corals. The earrings have a a total of EIGHT stones, (FOUR in each earring) FOUR of which are inlayed to create the snakes eyes, while the other FOUR are set in hand cut bezel, in the midst of stunning silver snake designs. Imprinted designs and silver beads add style and character to the earrings. The snake is found in many healing and fertility rituals. It is also connected with lightning, speed, and being able to move undetected. Earrings are stamped sterling, Zuni and hallmarked by the artist.
Corals are known to be very soothing and very protective. Coral is of an organic origin; it is the skeletal remains of marine animals called Coral Polyps. Colonies of these tiny creatures build branching structures as they grow, gradually forming reefs and atolls.
Turquoise is the birthstone of December. It is believed that turquoise tends to bring good fortune, strength and helps overcome illness. Turquoise got its name from the Levantine traders called Turks who brought the stone to Europe from Persia via Turkey centuries ago. Native Americans have prized turquoise since the time of the Aztecs, who mined it in New Mexico. The natural variations that occur in turquoise are part of its appeal and beauty.
Effie Calavaza-Well-known artist Effie Calavaza is from the Zuni Tribe, which is located in New Mexico. Effie was taught by her husband Juan Calavaza and began silver work in 1956. She combined her husband's work and her designs to create some of the most beautiful and most distinctive Native American art! Her hand done work is among the best and most recognized jewelry in the southwest. Her jewelry is stamped with the family hallmark EFFIE C. ZUNI, which is used by Effie and her three daughters Georgiana Yatsattie, Gloria Jean Garcia, and Susie Calavaza. Effie's daughters assist her in the jewelry making (she shared her spouse's mark, JUAN C. ZUNI, until his death ca. 1970). To this day Effie's work is collected throughout the world and she continues making jewelry because she enjoys it!
