Sterling Silver Killer Whale Orca Bracelet by James Sawyer (Haida)

Size

Material: Sterling silver

Size: 

Longer:

  • This bracelet is adjustable and fits wrist sizes 7.5 to 9 inches. 
  • Dimensions: 1.5 inches wide x 8 inches long

Design:

  • "A crest belonging to many different Haida Clans. Killer whale is a powerful being that lives in the Ocean realm is apart of many Haida stories." - Haida artist, Raven Thorgeirson.
  • "Killer whales are powerful creatures and represent family. The way they stay together and take care of one another is amazing." - Haida artist, Amy Edgars
  • This design features a “Sgaana”, also known as orca or killer whale, which is a symbol of community, family & intelligence. Orcas travel the ocean realms in groups, further cementing their symbolism of community and togetherness. 
  • It is believed that the killer whale people have an analogous society to humans under the ocean, and there is where the first totem poles & longhouses originated.
  • In Haida mythology, there are many stories involving the underworld. One such story is called boy riding killer whale, which depicts a man who has to jump on the back of a killer whale to rescue his wife from the underworld. 

Made by Haida Artist, James Sawyer: 

James Sawyer was born on Haida Gwaii in 1969. He is part of the Skidegate Giidins Clan. His lineage includes his uncle, Doug Wilson, argillite carver and author, and his grandfather, Ike Hans, argillite and wood carver. He is also influenced by fellow Haida artist and friend, Reg Davidson. James grew up in Richmond, British Columbia, and then moved home to Haida Gwaii in 1992. At that point, James started to develop his art skills by learning from the late Pat Wesley.

James started to practice art full time in 1997. Initially his focus was with paddles and graphics, then he began working on the designs for button blankets, vests, and logos. Later he started to work in wood and particularly with the steaming, folding and designing of bentwood boxes with relief carving. Today he primarily works in gold, silver and copper engraved jewellery.

Made by hand, please expect some variation in each piece. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any inquiries. We look forward to attending to your needs with the utmost care and attention to detail.