jewelry

Discusses what turquoise is, where it is found, the types of jewelry made from it, and why the jewelry is important to Native American cultures and includes a craft project.

Jade played a crucial role in the culture of the Maya and other ancient Americans who treasured it above all things. But the Spanish wanted gold and within fifty years of the Spanish conquest, the sources of Maya jade had been forgotten. Centuries later archaeologists excavating Maya cities uncovered numerous jade carvings and statues and wondered where the stone had come from.

Presents an illustrated study of Indian adornment from prehistoric times to the late twentieth century, looking at the jewelry, beadwork, and ceremonial regalia produced by the Native cultures of various regions throughout North America, and providing insights from tribal elders and artists on the significance of the work.