Beaded Turtle Amulet - Pinks & Purples

Sweet turtle amulet in pinks and purples on soft brain-tanned buckskin. Completely hand-stitched. Stuffed with cotton. Each amulet is hand made and unique; beading pattern may vary slightly from photos.

3.75" x 3"

In the Lakota tradition, Plains Indian mothers took special care of their newborn baby's umbilical cord. When the cord fell off, the mother sewed it into a small buckskin bag, often shaped like a lizard or turtle, but sometimes plain.

This bag was attached to the baby’s cradle as its first toy. Later, it was worn around the child’s neck or tied to his clothing. It was kept for a lifetime as a charm to ensure long life, because the cord represented a link between the child’s existence before birth and his life after birth. Source: aktalakota.stjo.org

Custom orders are welcome. Please inquire.