Description
This is a medium sized charoite Zia pendant from the New Mexico Collection. The stone is bound and woven in place using my “Boglioli Methods”. It is designed to be a contemporary rendition of the traditional Zia sun symbol that is present on the New Mexico state flag. The 16 “rays” of this symbol are bound with fine silver and fixed in place permanently using signature methods.
Details
This charoite Zia pendant has a width of about 26 mm (1 inch) and a height of about 35 mm (1 3/8 inch). It comes with an 18 inch snake chain that is 1 mm thick.
Charoite
Charoite is a purple colored silicate mineral only found in Siberia, Russia. It is known for it’s swirling pearly luster and vivid color.
Follow the link below if you want further information about charoite.
The History and Meanings of The Zia Symbol
The Zia is revered as symbol of all things New Mexican by residents of the southwestern state, as well as visitors who appreciate it’s beautiful scenery and culture. Many also honor it’s origins as a sacred symbol.
The Zia was originally, and currently is, regarded as a sacred representation of the sun by the people of the Zia Pueblo in New Mexico. It is said to symbolize the four winds, four seasons, four directions, and four stages of life. The circle brings the four groups of four together.
In 1925 an anthropologist designed a flag for the State of New Mexico that incorporated the symbol, with the old Spanish colors of red and gold. This design was adopted as the official flag of New Mexico, and is still used today.
To see more Zia pendants, view the New Mexico Collection here: New Mexico Collection
Don VC –
We saw the pendant on display at the artist co-op in old town Albuquerque and spent time with Jack discussing how it was made. We really liked it and I followed up with Jack a few weeks later and had him mail one to me as a birthday gift for my wife. It is unique and special. My wife gets compliments all the time. Jack- Keep up the good work. Great design