Native American Zuni Frog Fetish Carving

What is a Fetish?

A fetish is a rock carving of an animal that captures the spirit and the essence of the animal, not necessarily its exact detailed conformation. Although carved from many types of rock, fishrock is traditional. Read more about fetishes.

Frogs and turtles are some of the oldest and most commonly carved Zuni fetishes. Frogs are considered a major rain-bringing fetish so very important to the Zuni who live in an arid portion of the southwest US. Frogs also represent abundance and fertility. It is said that women become pregnant when a frog fetish is kept next to the bed - which can be a good thing or a surprise ! So be forewarned !

Argite - Argite is frequently used for Zuni carvings but little can be found about its origin. It has been called Spotted Serpentine and is similar to Zebra Stone which is a black and white stone from the vicinity of Prescott, Arizona. It is said to bring out your intuition, tenderness, gentleness and love. It helps you exercise self-control and understand your chosen destiny. It stimulates creativity and success.