Mixtec or Aztec Obsidian Necklace...

Description

Mixtec or Aztec Obsidian Necklace

Mixtec or Aztec
C. 1200-1400 AD
Obsidian
3" to 4¾" Wide

The obsidian pieces are struck from a crescent shaped core, each with sharply flat sides and the tops and bottoms exhibiting chipping. Each piece is drilled on either end for suspension and, most likely, worn at the neck in a long column. Collection includes seven 'U' shaped ornaments, five of which are mounted on a modern chain, one of these with one loop damaged; the other two are loose, one of these, broken in two pieces. Throughout the Pre-Columbian cultures, it was normal for knappers of flint and obsidian to travel from village to village hauling obsidian cores and striking off razors and knives in exchange for other wares or food. These ornaments are quite out of the norm.

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