Zuni Thunderbird cuff links-Pawn Jewelry

1970's Zuni inlay thunderbird cuff links. This unique offering features a traditional thunderbird design inlayed with coral, turquoise, jet and white mother of pearl shell. Mounted in solid sterling silver, these cuff links are beautifully crafted and show a vintage style not often seen. 

It comes 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 Navajo culture. 

Material: Sterling silver & turquoise

Tribe affiliation: Zuni

Time period: 1970's