Jacla is Navajo for “ear string”. The Navajo spelling is the most commonly used version of the word. Jocla is also common but jackla is a phonetic misspelling. Although jaclas are attributed to the Rio Grande Pueblo Indians, they were traded with other tribes so have become associated with the Navajo as well. They are seen in vintage photos being worn by members of all southwest tribes, both men and women. This style of beadwork is thought to be the oldest form of jewelry from New Mexico and is still practiced today mostly among Native Americans of the Santo Domingo (Kewa) and San Felipe Pueblos. It predates the metalworking and lapidary techniques practiced by the Navajo, Hopi and Zuni, which were introduced by Europeans.

This lovely Jacla pair features natural turquoise hand rolled beads and clam shell (corn kernel) tabs. This Jacla is all Native American hand crafted and is not foreign made, dyed material from overseas. A great deal of hard work goes into the making of these types of beads.