native american symbols
Many different symbols are found in Southwestern jewelry. Below is a list of commonly seen symbols in Native American jewelry along with the meaning behind them.
arrow |
An arrow is representative of war. |
arrowhead |
Arrowheads are an integral part of the tribe's survival. Arrowheads also represent alertness and direction. |
Broken Arrow |
While an arrow is symbolic of war, a broken arrow represents peace. |
brotherhood |
The symbol of brotherhood represents the loyalty between two people, or two tribes. |
buffalo |
The buffalo is another sacred animal in Native American culture. Buffalos were a primary source of food, clothing, and other materials. |
cactus |
The cactus represents protection and endurance. The pulp of the cactus was used in medicinal recipes to reduce inflammation. |
Crossed Arrows |
While a single arrow represents war, crossed arrows are symbolic of friendship. |
coyote |
The coyote is a sacred animal that is important to Native American culture. Coyotes symbolize intelligence and craftiness. |
crow |
The crow represents intelligence and wisdom. |
eagle |
The eagle is a powerful bird that symbolizes victory. |
falcon |
The falcon represents vision, knowledge, and decisiveness. |
fire |
Fire imagery is symbolic of purification, cleansing, and renewal. |
fox |
The fox is a cunning Spirit Animal that represents awareness, responsiveness, and craftiness. |
hummingbird |
The hummingbird is representative of joy and playfulness. |
lightning |
Lightning represents a warrior's speed and power. |
man in the maze |
The man in the maze imagery is symbolic of the journey through life. |
moon |
The moon can be representative of serenity and protection, and can also symbolize the female spirit. |
rain |
Rain symbols represent renewal, fertility, and change. Rain, or rain clouds, are considered positive imagery in Native American jewelry. |
raven |
The raven represents medicine and healing. Ravens were thought to be messengers from the spirit world, helping to treat the sick. |
Tree |
Trees are representative of age and longevity. |
turtle |
The turtle represents longevity and health. |
waves |
Waves are used to represent life and renewal. |
wolf |
The wolf is symbolic of strength, protection, and leadership. |