Understanding The Symbolism Of Native American Fetish Animals

Native Americans have a close relationship to the animals around them. They serve as protectors and guardians. They are represented by the beautiful hand carved fetish animals that are not just ordinary, they are made impeccably and with great care. 

Native Americans have a strong affinity and spiritual connection to nature. One of the most evocative representations of their love and appreciation of all things in nature is the carved fetish animal. Popularized by the Zuni, these fetishes are carved figures of specific animals that have a spiritual representation to the daily lives and activities of this tribe. 

All of the animals that are carved by the Zuni tribe have various meanings and attributes. Following the sacred directions of the Zuni, each fetish animal has a spirit. One such animal is the fetish bear. It pertains to medicine. The snake pertains to lightning. Offering good luck to its owner, is the great horned toad. A frog fetish animal evokes fertility. The coyote pertains to the west and is a symbol of hunting. Representing the direction of the south, the badger means tenacity. The north direction is for the mountain lion. Symbolizing the west, the wolf represents swiftness. The Eagle which symbolizes great vision is the symbol for above. For the below direction the mole is the fetish animal. 

Carving Native Indian fetish animals requires considerable knowledge, experience as well as precision and high regards to craftsmanship. These Native American fetish animals exemplify those qualities of being extremely intricate and uniquely Indian art. Stones of different types are used as the base material and depending on the kind and quality of stone, prices can vary. 

Traditional Native American fetish animals in the past have been imbued with spirits. They may not contain the same spiritual forces today however. It is up to the owner to decide. Many people can appreciate the beauty of these hand carved works of art. These fetishes seem to lead people to be closer with nature and the animal world somehow. 

Native American fetish animals can also be bought in necklace form. Be cautious if you desire a true Native American fetish though. Considered as fake, some of these jewelry pieces may include animals that are not included in the traditional Native American fetishes. It would be best to take time and check for authentic Zuni items in reliable stores. Ranging from over a hundred dollars, the prices of authentic fetishes can vary. 

If you desire a spiritual experience as well as a great keepsake that you will forever cherish because of its beauty and allure, then these fetish animals are very appropriate. They will offer beauty that will make you feel closer to nature even if they don't offer a link to the spiritual world. 

See our entire collection of carved Native American fetishes here.