Turtle Pendant

Initially, the main sources of silver were British, French, and Spanish coins. Most ornaments were produced by silversmiths of European origin in North America and Europe. By the mid-18th century silver objects were produced in New England, Quebec and Montreal. Silver ornaments continue to be produced by native silversmiths in Central Canada and the USA. Animal imagery is a significant part of woodland first nations tradition, but no documented instance has been found of the use of animal effigies in trade. The place of effigies in woodlands culture is not known.

personal ornamentation

The Iroquois legend of the turtle explains that the Earth was formed from a lump of mud on the turtle's back. See Frederickson, page 59.

Rocker engraving is a narrow band of engraving done freehand. Irregularity is characteristic.

Pendant with flat shaped border and raised turtle in centre. Engraved double circles at four corners and rocker engraving on turtle's back. Hole at the top and maker's marks at bottom of pendant.