What does a squash blossom necklace represent?
As with many native cultures, wealth was often worn in the form of adornment, and in many early photographs of the Navajo and other Southwestern Native peoples, it is clear that Squash Blossom Necklaces were worn with pride and reverence for their beauty and inherent value.
How do you identify squash blossoms?
Check the base of the flower where the blossom meets the stem. Female squash blossoms have a small swollen embryonic fruit at their base, which will grow into a squash if the bee does what bees do. Male squash blossoms are showier and they tend to hang out on long skinny stalks all along the plant.
How much is a squash blossom necklace worth?
Note that many handmade, authentic squash blossom necklace sets are easily worth $1,500, with individual squash blossom pendants being worth over $300. If a seller offers you a necklace for a low price, like $100, you can safely assume that the product is a counterfeit.
Where did squash blossom jewelry originate?
The Naja symbol – the impressive centerpiece of the squash blossom design – is said to have originated in the Middle East, where the Moors brought horse shoe shaped jewelry with them as a ward against the evil eye into Spain. From here, the Spanish conquistadors brought the symbol to the Navajo, who adopted it.
How can you tell if a squash flower is male or female?
On squash, this is very easy to do. Female flowers will always have a tiny fruit under the flower. Male flowers grow on a long narrow stem. You can also tell the two apart by looking at the reproductive organs found in the center of the flower. The female flowers contain the stigma.
How do you tell if squash has been pollinated?
Early signs look like the closed blossom might not have been pollinated, as the blossom end is beginning to turn yellow. On some squash plants, particularly summer squash like zucchinis, a fruit that was not pollinated completely will be obvious.
Where can I find squash blossoms?
You can find squash blossoms at the farmers markets or at some grocery stores when they’re in season. Look for blooms that are bright and not shriveled, and use them as quickly as possible after buying.