Native American Fetishes

Native American fetishes can be likened to the amulets, charms, and talismans of other cultures. They are objects that carry mystical significance which can have a direct impact on its possessor. While all Southwestern tribes make and use fetishes, the Zuni and Navajo are the most widely known. When the artist who creates the fetish prays over their work, it is said to release the spirit of the animal into the carving. The animal spirits are said to bring good luck, protection, and guidance to it’s owner. There are six main fetishes that are associated with the six cardinal directions, each of which carry special powers. The North is represented by the mountain lion, the South is represented by the badger, the West belongs to the bear, and the East is represented by the wolf.

Selection Guidelines

The most important factors in selecting a fetish are:

• to pick one that you really like. Whether it be the animal, the art itself, or a combination of the two, make sure it speaks to you.

• What is it made of? Fetishes are commonly made of alabaster, turquoise, coral, jet, and antler, and the price will vary according to its medium.

• What animal does it represent?

• Who carved the fetish? To what pueblo or tribal group does the person who carved the fetish belong?

Proper Care

The care of a fetish occurs on two levels: the physical and the spiritual. Physically, the fetish should be kept dry and dust free by cleaning it with a soft cloth. On the spiritual level, the fetish needs to be fed cornmeal on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness.

If taken care of and treated properly, the fetish will guide you on the right path of life. Each animal fetish has certain special powers.

Animal Symbolism

The following is only a partial list of some of the more common animal fetishes and their significance:

Armadillo:  keeper of the home, gets things right

Badger: helps to achieve goals

Bear: strength, protection, insight

Beaver: progressive builder, promotes family unity

Buffalo: endurance, perseverance

Coyote: trickster, the ability to laugh at oneself, humor

Eagle: connection to the Divine, transcends personal problems

Fox: camouflage, protection

Frog: can be petitioned to bring forth abundant rain, good luck

Horned Toad: longevity, self-reliance, conservation

Horse: innate healing powers, freedom

Mole: amplifies connection with the earth, keeper of the underground

Mountain Lion: leadership, resourcefulness

Owl: keeper of the night, wisdom, intellect, patience, endurance of the mind, controls the dark side of nature, messenger

Ram: used to obtain abundant herds

Raven: scratch the raven's beak across an afflicted person's skull to release its healing powers

Snake: powerful animal symbolizing life, death, and rebirth. To the Aztec, the most sacred because it is the closest to Mother Earth.

Turtle: long, meaningful life, purpose

Wolf: teacher, survivor, pathfinder