Dangle silver earrings w/ red spiny oyster shell

These earrings are handcrafted by a Navajo artist. They feature red spiny oyster shels that are set in sterling silver. The earrings have round top mounting with stamping with a large dangle element. The dangle piece has a detailed repousee´stamping. They come attached to its original red pawn ticket.The term "pawn" refers to jewelry that has been pawned to brokers. The practice of pawning jewelry began in the early 1900s when Native Americans and traders would exchange jewelry for food and other necessities, it is still used today and is embedded in the their culture. 

Material: Sterling silver & red spiny oyster shell

Tribe affiliation: Navajo

Time period: current

measurements: 5/8" round- top circle: bottom dangle element 2" x 1"