Silver Snow Symbol Bear Pendant
Sterling Silver Snow Symbol Bear Pendant By Ruben Saufkie Sr. This pendant features an oxidized sterling silver overlay Hopi snow symbol on a silver bear pendant. This pendant measures 2 1/4 inches.
Hopi Native American Jewelry
Known as the “Peaceful Ones,” the Hopi Indians have made the American Southwest their home for hundreds of years and their jewelry illustrates the rich and spiritual history of their culture. The Hopi use symbols in their art such as bear paws and eagle feathers to provide spiritual protection and encouragement.
Hopi Symbol Meanings:
Bears: Physical strength, leadership
Bear paw: Inner strength
Feathers: Prayers, creativity
Kokopelli: Fertility
Eagle: Carrier of prayers
Buffalo: Peace
Dream catcher: Catches bad dreams
Arrowhead: Adventure
Square Spiral: Earth
Waves: Water
Triangles: Mountains
Native American Artist: Ruben Saufkie, Sr.
Hopi artist, Ruben Saufkie, Sr. of the Water Clan has been silversmithing since 1988 in the Hopi overlay process. He learned from his grandfather, Paul Saufkie, Sr., who created the silversmithing program at the Hopi Co-Op Guild so the jewelry-making tradition could continue into future generations. Ruben also learned the technique of tufa casting and is now combining the two styles together to create unique and one-of-a kind jewelry.
My five children and my wife, Barbie, have been the greatest gift Creator has gifted me. One other gift given to me by the Creator is the art of making jewelry,” says Ruben.
Ruben says he shares his life journey through all his jewelry. In his jewelry, Ruben uses the designs and inspiration from his ancestors seen in petroglyphs. He has been sober for over 20 years and uses his jewelry to share a message of strength and healing.