Sterling Silver Navajo Mother-in-Law Bell Earrings [SOLD]

Traditionally, according to the Navajo way, a man would move into his wife’s family home after marriage. In addition, there is a traditional belief that a man should not lay eyes on his mother-in-law. This taboo led to the traditional Navajo “mother-in-law” bell. It was worn by the mother-in-law to warn her son-in-law of her impending arrival. Women would wear silver bells on their clothing, so they could alert household members as to their whereabouts, thereby avoiding any unwanted contact.

Eventually, these bells became a popular item with the tourist trade in the mid-20th Century, especially as earrings. These small earrings feature delicate stamp work and a small piece of turquoise set in a handmade bezel. There is a small clapper in each earring which makes a delightful ring as the wearer moves around.

Condition: this Sterling Silver Navajo Mother-in-Law Bell Earrings are in very good condition

Provenance: From a Colorado collector

Recommended Reading: Navajo and Pueblo Earrings - 1850-1945 - Collected by Robert V. Gallegos by Robert Bauver