The origins of Indian jewelry predate the arrival of the people historians now describe as Native Americans or American Indians. Archeological evidence supports the theory that stones, which include turquoise, shells, and carved fetishes, predate the Christian epoch. Turquoise that was found in Hohokam excavations in southern Arizona has dated back to 200 B.C., in central Mexico approximately 600-700 B.C., and in South America about 900 B.C.
Turquoise is a mineral deposit that is isolated to a limited geographical area in the southwestern United States. A small amount of turquoise has been found in Mexico, and there are some deposits in western South America. Prehistoric Indians mined turquoise and used it to produce jewelry by drilling beads and other hanging ornaments. There is evidence of prehistoric mining operations that has been found in several areas, which include The Cerillos and Burro Mountain regions of New Mexico, the Kingman and Morenci regions of Arizona, and the Conejos area of Colorado. In southern Mexico and in excavated mounds east of the Mississippi, turquoise jewelry has been analyzed and proclaimed to be from New Mexico's Cerillos mining area.
Archeologists maintain the abundance of turquoise and spiny oyster found in excavations of mounds reveals the existence of some type of economic system. It shows the existence of a trading lifestyle and a person’s socioeconomic status. The native people of the desert southwest believe turquoise symbolizes a source of life-giving sun and precious renewing rain.
The turquoise necklace has had overwhelming fashion success due to its variability of styles and its wonderful complexion compatibility. It is noted as one of the most artistically functional articles, complementing the adorner’s age, face, body shape, and height. The turquoise necklace has taken on many forms, which include the pendant, beaded, or the squash blossom categories.
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