Carolyn Pollack - Relios
Jasper Bear Pendant

BBN349 - $32 SOLD

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The Grizzli Collection

Garris was an attorney in New York City, and was once an assistant district attorney for Queens County. It was during her legal career that she was nicknamed "Grizzli" by her colleagues for her relentless aggression in the courtroom going after white collar criminals; her late husband, David, called her "Grizzli" ever since they met, and her license plate also read"Grizzli". When Garris attended law school, she met her best friend Gila, who moved to Tucson, and it was on trips to Arizona visiting Gila that Garris fell in love with Native American jewelry, especially pieces with birds or bears (given her nickname). David was half Cherokee, and even though Garris was very much a Jewish New Yorker without any personal connection to tribal culture or artwork, her love for David amplified her interest in Native American symbolism. Over the years, she amassed an extensive collection of southwest jewelry. We are pleased to find new homes for Grizzli's collection. Many pieces, although beautiful, are not Native American made, and that's why we are selling them here in the Bargain Barn.

Native American Bear Symbolism

Bear is considered the most powerful of all of the animals and is one of the most popular subjects of Native American carvers. Bear is a spiritual guide and represents strength and self-knowledge. Bear has supernatural powers and great healing powers. Bear is a symbol deliberate action, introspection, soul and insight for the past and the future. The Bear is the guardian of the West an is one of the animals of the Six Directions. Bears are the main figure in the Mountain Way, an important Navajo ceremony. Bear claws are a traditional adornment to pendants and bracelets.

About Relios Jewelry

Relios Jewelry, founded in 1975 by Bill Pollack in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is known for its Southwestern-style silver jewelry. Carolyn Pollack, Bill's wife, is the lead designer. Relios jewelry uses .925 sterling silver and natural gemstones such as turquoise, lapis lazuli, jasper and mother of pearl. Every piece is designed and crafted in their Albuquerque facility, emphasizing authenticity and American craftsmanship. Relios designs often reflect Southwestern and Native American influences and sometimes come from collaboration with notable Native American artists like Roderick Tenorio and Veronica Benally.