Sterling Silver 'Thunderbird' Large Spirit Bead Necklace

Artist: Haida

The Thunderbird symbolizes power, protection and strength. He is often seen as the most powerful of all spirits and can also transform into human form by opening his head up like a mask and taking his feathers off as if they were a mere blanket. Under his wings are lightning snakes, which he uses as his tool or weapon. The Thunderbird is a mythical creature, said to be the dominating force of all natural activity. Located in the Pacific North-Western Mountains, the Thunderbird creates booms of thunder by flapping his wings, and shoots bolts of lightning from his eyes when hunters get too close to his home.

Creating rainstorms, he waters the earth, making it possible for vegetation to grow. He is said to be so huge that his wingspan is as large as two canoes, and that he could easily carry a killer whale out of the water with his talons. Only the most powerful and successful chiefs and families use the Thunderbird in their crest. He resembles the Eagle, but is distinguished by the two curved horns or plumage on his head. Long ago, the Native people pleaded to the Thunderbird for help in times of food shortage. He helped, but in return requested that from then on he be the only symbol depicted at the top of totem poles, with his wings stretched out. That is why on many Northwest Coast totem poles, the Thunderbird is carved on top of the pole.

Large Spirit Bead Measures: 1.2cm Long X 1.0cm Wide 

Comes with 18" Sterling Silver Box Chain.

Includes: Totem Bio, Artist Bio & Spirit Bead Bio