Turquoise jewelry explains the deep cultural significance of turquoise jewelry, especially necklaces, in the Navajo tradition. The color blue, turquoise is associated with past lives, the “second world” or “blue world,” reminding the wearer of their spiritual origins.
Turquoise jewelry serves as a symbol of connection to the spirit world and a reminder of the wearer’s responsibilities in this life (“the third world”). Specifically, the necklace represents the umbilical cord, signifying the wearer’s connection to ancestors and holy ones. The word "yo" is used to describe necklaces and any item of significant sacred value.
Design elements in jewelry that carry deep meaning:
Two loops, strands: Symbolize the male and female principles.
A shell in the middle of a turquoise: Also symbolizes male and female.
Four shells: Indicate the sacred four, which are central to the belief.
Coral: Located at the top of the necklace, symbolizes the red path of transition between the worlds. Red is associated with the journey to the fourth world.
The idea of adoption and acceptance of new people into the family and clan is also important. A necklace given in this case symbolizes adoption. Jewelry offers protection, not from an outside source, but from the power of prayer given by the wearer as a child of holy people. Thus, the idea of protection comes directly from the commitment to prayer.
Traditionally, turquoise was not something to be mined; it was seen as a gift to be cared for. Traditionally, turquoise was seen as a gift from the Earth, given to be cared for, not something to be taken by force. The idea of respecting the gifts of nature was emphasized.