Navajo jeweler, Pearlene Spencer, made this sleek, sterling silver bear paw ring.  The shadowbox setting highlights the bright blue turquoise in the center.  The inside of the shadowbox and the setting around the stone is oxidized to turn it black.  "S" and "Sterling" are stamped inside. More about bears below.

Size: 9 - Bear Paw: .875" H x .675" W

Bears are the guardians of the western gate in Zuni Pueblo.  They are associated with healing at all levels, protection, and a reminder to restore oneself during the winter months.  In some traditions a part of the bear is rubbed all over infants to imbue them with power, strength, and good health.