Turtle Trade Silver Inspired Pewter Pendant
At first glance, this little turtle may seem like a simple symbol of patience and longevity, but its place in our collection has another story to tell.
Silver ornaments played an important role in the history of trade and exchange between Europeans and Indigenous peoples in North America. Often referred to today as trade silver, these pieces included brooches, earrings, crosses, animal forms, and other ornaments that were traded, gifted, purchased, and eventually incorporated into the personal adornment and traditions of many Native communities.
Our pewter turtle is inspired by that tradition of small, wearable metal ornaments, which is why you'll often find this piece on our table at historical and reenactment events.
The turtle itself carries symbolism that reaches across cultures and centuries. With their remarkably long lives and steady nature, turtles have often represented longevity, endurance, patience, and wisdom. Their connection to both land and water has also given them an important place in the traditions and stories of cultures throughout the world.
For some Indigenous peoples of North America, the turtle holds particularly profound meaning. Turtle imagery appears in a variety of traditions and creation stories, although its meaning differs among individual Nations and communities. That distinction is important, the turtle does not have one universal Native meaning, but instead belongs to many distinct cultural traditions and stories.
There is something about the turtle's steady determination that continues to resonate today: protected by its shell, moving at its own pace, and carrying on.
Hand cast in lead-free pewter and individually hand finished in our shop, the pendant has a softly sculpted, dimensional shell with simple incised details that give it the character of an early handmade ornament.
The turtle measures approximately 1-1/2" x 1" and comes on an 18" stainless steel chain.
A small piece with a surprisingly long story; connecting history, symbolism, and the meaning its next wearer chooses to carry forward.
