

Chimalli Pendant

By Native Hands
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Symbolism
Shield of Yanhuitlán
From the “Aztec Heritage” and "Sacred Stones of Mesoamerica" Collections
This pendant is an exact replica of the Chimalli of Yanhuitlán, a sacred Mixtec warrior shield discovered in the highlands of Oaxaca and preserved in Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology. Crafted as a ceremonial war emblem, the original piece represents the Sun as a warrior, with its rays envisioned as turquoise serpents (Xiuhcóatl), the divine weapons of light.
Two intertwined grecas, one gold, one turquoise, symbolize the union of war, water, and the sun, linking fertility, death, and rebirth. At the center, a stepped fret motif is set against a bed of turquoise mosaic, framed by fine filigree spirals that resemble feathers. Four arrows cross the shield, representing the four cosmic directions, while eleven tubular bells hang below, evoking ritual sound and sacred resonance.
MATERIALS
Handcrafted in solid .925 Sterling Silver with Natural Turquoise and 24K Gold Plate
Cultural Preservation
Each purchase empowers local Mayan artisans, fostering community collaboration and sustaining traditional craftsmanship. By choosing Tikalkun Jewelry, you're uplifting local economies and preserving a rich cultural heritage.
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Craftsmanship
At Tikalkun, every piece is a ritual—a tribute to the ancient civilizations that shaped our world. We don’t just craft jewelry; we translate sacred symbols into silver—symbols of power, wisdom, and transformation that still echo through time.
Each design begins with a search. Tikal, our founder and jeweler, dives deep into Mesoamerican iconography until he finds a symbol that calls to be reborn. With modern tools like 3D modeling and hands guided by reverence, we shape every piece as a bridge between past and present.
We are a family working with heart and soul. Every detail is handled with care, every line drawn with respect. There’s no rush, no mass production—only pieces that carry the breath of civilizations that saw life as sacred.
Tikalkun doesn’t follow trends. It honors memory. Because some wear jewelry—but others carry legacy.