Bear Claw Necklace – Usa

Bear Claw Necklace – USA It is possible that this necklace comes from the Pawnee tribe of the Central Plains in the United States. Twenty-four claws are on the necklace with white glass beads. The pouch in the necklace is probably that of an otter which symbolizes both strength on land and in water. These collars are worn by Pawnee Otoe and Omaha men as an emblem of their honor and status as chiefs. In Pawnee culture, bears, grizzly bears in particular, are associated with strength and the supernatural power of healing. REGION: Most likely Pawnee or Cherokee, Central Plains (from central Kansas to Nebraska), USA MATERIAL: Bear claws, glass beads, fur, fabric, bell metal PERIOD: 1830-1840 DIAMETER: 24 cm (Base)