Kachina
Kachina means spirit. Kachinas are the spirits of departed ancestors, of rain and clouds, of supernatural beings, and of life in its many manifestations. Lore says, they are guardians of the Hopi and carry the prayers of the people to the spirit world. Carved Kachina dolls are given to Hopi children to help them identify the various spiritual figures and their costumes.
During the annual cycle of Pueblo rituals, brilliantly costumed and masked Kachina dancers, acting as intermediaries, summon their spirit ancestors for blessings of sunshine, rain, bountiful crops, and success in hunting, and thank them for the favors bestowed upon the pueblo. Today the Kachina is an important element in Southwest jewelry.


Symbols
Long before the people of the desert Southwest communicated through written means, Petroglyphs or pictures were etched into and painted on the canyon walls and ancient dwellings. These pictures told the stories of the day, legends of the past, and prayers for the future.
Bear - sacred healing power
Turtle - wisdom and perseverance
Crossed Arrows - friendship
Rain Clouds - good prospects
Horse - journey
Arrow - protection
Arrowhead - alertness
Big Mountain - abundance
Butterfly - everlasting life
Sun Rays - Consistency
Thunderbird Tracks - Bright Prospects
Zia - the sun symbol, constancy and happiness
Mountain Range - abundance
Raindrop - plentiful crops

Moon and Star - the heavens
Lightning Arrow - swiftness
Man - Human Life
Running Water - Constant Life