Squash blossom necklaces were copied and modified by many different tribes and artists. The Zuni are credited with adding stones to the squash blossom. At first single stones were used to enhance the silver work of the necklace. However, it didn’t take long for the Zuni to add their amazing inlay work and even character designs to the squash blossom necklaces. The example pictured here features the Knifewing kachina, with arms stretched towards the sky. As you can see, each and every Knifewing on this necklace is an individual accomplishment in jewelry crafting. The necklace as a whole is an astonishing creation.
The Hopi tribe have also added their characteristic shadow box elements to these necklaces to give the pieces a Hopi signature look. I’ve even seen Winnie the Pooh as well as the entire Micky Mouse crew on modern squash blossom necklaces. Just like other types of turquoise jewelry, squash blossoms have grown to represent both the traditional and the modern styles of jewelry artistry.