Navajo Indian Genuine Turquoise Coral Silver Bear Paw Shadow Box Buckle.

The Bear Paw buckle will definitely make a strong statement. Made by Navajo artist Wilbur Muskett. This incredible belt buckle was masterfully hand made out of Sterling Silver. A hand cut traditional bear claw design helps create a deep Sterling Silver shadow box. The palm of the bear paw holds a nugget of genuine sky blue Sleeping Beauty Turquoise and a nugget of genuine red Coral. Traditional hand stamped southwestern designs and a hand twisted Sterling wire help give this buckle the perfect look. This Navajo Indian made buckle is 3" wide by 2-1/2" tall with a 1-1/2" wide keeper on the back. Stamped Sterling and signed by the Native American artist Wilbur Muskett.

The Bear is a potent source of strength for many Native Americans. Admired for their strength, independence, and self reliance, Bear's spirits were often invoked before entering battle. Warriors sometimes painted their faces with marks resembling bear claw scratches and carried double-edged knives with handles carved from the jawbones of bears as good luck charms. It was believed that bear power could also cure illness. Shamans or medicine men from many different groups frequently dressed as bears when working to heal the sick. Just as honoring the bear spirit could bring blessings to people, provoking the spirit might bring them harm. For that reason, some tribes, most notably the Apache, forbade their hunters to kill a bear, or even to touch the carcass of one found dead in the woods.

We understand the true value and nature of hand crafted Indian art. And, we recognize it's important to know that the artist is truly a member of a Native American tribe. So, to ensure you that this is the real deal, a Certificate of Authenticity has been included with this item.

CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC