Vintage Sterling & Turquoise Bear Paw Shadowbox Clip Earrings

Lovely old bear paw earrings - genuine turquoise round petit point centers. Has the look of Sleeping Beauty, but always hard to tell mine unless you actually see it come out of the ground - under the loupe I see a faint white matrix. Gorgeous glowy, gem grade cabochons. The bear-paw is done shadowbox style with the darker backing creating a nice contrast for the cut-out claws of the bear. Saw tooth bezels. Well-functioning clip-ons. It’s really nice to just reach up & safely pull your earrings off! Just over .5" long - see all photos for best idea. Unmarked - test positive for sterling. Handmade. I can’t say for sure these were native made, but I can’t say for sure they weren’t either. I suspect 70’s mebbe even earlier. The Bear is a sacred animal in Native American traditions overall with many meanings - considered a powerful symbol of courage, protection, wisdom, insight, foresight and resourcefulness. Often considered to have magical powers, The Bear is looked upon as guardian, teacher, leader, protector and healer. Excellent vintage condition w/patina & mild wear as would be expected for age. On the back of one is some darkened glue that will easily come off (perhaps from a sticker?) These are small & sweet - with those glowy bright blue stones? Utterly precious! #vintage #bearpaw #turquoise #sleepingbeauty #60’s #70’s #native #southwestern #coastalcowgirl #clipons #iconic #hippie #flowerchild #rockabilly #bohemian