Authentic Tribal Naga Necklace with Dragon Pendant/Breastplate 32399

An extraordinary vintage Naga (Nagaland) ceremonial necklace with 34” of trade-style beads and a heavily carved 7” x 4” dragon focal or breastplate.  A “warrior” necklace, this piece was worn as more than decoration; it served as a symbol of strength and status and were typically crafted and worn by the Konyak, Angami, or Ao tribal people.

The three strands of trade beads are a mix of clay and glass and are tied with cotton cord.  The breastplate or pendant/focal is wood with a tiny bit of gilt accenting on the elaborately carved dragon. 

A stunning piece to wear or hang as ethnic art, this is a one-of-a-kind piece.

Please note:  These necklaces are often buried temporarily with the dead before being reclaimed by the family after a brief mourning period and they were also often buried when not being worn in order to protect the cord from insects and mice.  We do NOT clean these since many of our customers prefer them in their original condition.  If you wish to clean them, we recommend warm water and a soft cloth wiped gently over the beads – as if counting a mala or rosary – or a baby wipe if you prefer a bit of sheen to be left on the glass or wood.  Please do not use a disinfecting wipe or similar since chemicals can impact the life of the cord.

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