Necklace

Silver ornaments represent an important part of early exchange between Europeans, including fur traders, and First Nations peoples, especially in eastern and central Canada and the U.S.A. Initially, the main source of silver was British, French and Spanish coins. Most ornaments were produced by silversmiths of European origin in North America and Europe, and were actively traded only from 1760 to 1821. By the mid-18th century silver objects were produced in New England, Quebec and Montreal. Silver was used by First Nations peoples as a sign of rank. Silver ornaments in these styles continue to be produced by native silversmiths in central Canada and the U.S.A.
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.
The cross was the oldest form of trade silver, introduced by French missionaries to North America for presentation to converts. Crosses were later used as trade silver with no religious connotations. They circulated well into the 19th century and were worn on the chest. The Latin cross has a single bar.

personal decoration; status

Necklace of 60 light blue glass beads in groups of 4 and 2, alternating with 16 cobalt blue glass beads and 6 cylindrical yellow glass beads,. 6 hollow silver beavers with bottom plates are attached at regular intervals to lower half of necklace. A flat silver Latin cross with circle and zigzag border is attached at bottom midpoint. One cobalt blue bead is broken. Maker’s mark in cartouche on beavers and on cross. The crown is above the “TE”.