Arizona Turquoise and Zuni Sunface Pendant.
The pendant is vintage, made by authentic Zuni artists Faye and Larry Lonjose, signed in the back.
Circa 1980s.
In North American history, the Sunface represents the sacred Sun Father. It is an ancient symbol of the Zuni tribe recognizing that the Sun's energy and warmth sustains life, promotes growth, and ushers joy and prosperity to the people.
The Sunface symbol is round depicting the Sun with a forehead split down the middle to reflect the everlasting balance between Sunrise and Sunset. Rectangular eyes and a round mouth complete the face, and the whole is encircled by feathers that radiate outward like sun rays.
Throughout the ages, the traditional Sunface design is composed of precious stones that are as meaningful as they are beautiful. The turquoise represents oneness between the physical and spiritual realms; the coral alongside it offers protection and comfort. The Sun’s main face is made of mother of pearl, which embodies intuition and imagination, while the black onyx completes the face’s features. Together these 4 materials and their vividly contrasting colors balance each other within a unified circle.
Materials: turquoise, sterling silver, coral, shell, onyx
