ArtFire

This 3 bead brick stitch necklace was designed by Carole Collier and beaded by Joni Stinson, Creek-Cherokee.

The Thunderbird is frequently used in Native American Designs. In many tribes, the Thunderbird is the symbol for salvation and divine gifts.

The Thunderbird has special significance for Joni as it is the symbol used by the Oklahoma's 45th Division. Though Joni lives in Nebraska, there is a song verse that goes, "I'm Sooner born and Sooner bred and when I die I'll be Sooner Dead". She beaded this thunderbird necklace as a tribute to Oklahoma and 45th Division.

The beaded "chain" of the necklace measures 24 inches. The "thunderbird pendant is 4 1/4 inches (including dangles) X 2 1/4 inches. No clasp is required as the necklace goes easily over the head.

The use of Delica beads give this necklace a smaller scale than those previously beaded from this same pattern.

Texture is provided to the necklace by the use of transparent crystal, matte turquoise, dark blue iris, and gold metallic Delica seed beads. The "dangles" are made of matching seed beads, bugle beads and 3 mm blue iris drops.

This necklace was very fun to make and I know it will be fun to wear as well. Should you like the necklace made in a different color pallette, just convo me and I'd be happy to custom bead one just for you.

Wa-do', Mvto! (Thank you in both Cherokee and Creek) for viewing.

delica seed beads, nymo, bees wax, bugle beads, drop beads