18k Yellow Gold Peru TUMI Pendant. Incan Healing Protection Amulet

* Please note that there is damage to the chrysocolla gemstone on the back of this pendant, as described below.

This remarkable solid 18k yellow gold Peruvian tumi pendant is a beautiful piece of jewelry inspired by the fascinating history and mythology of ancient Andean civilizations!

The tumi is a traditional Peruvian ceremonial knife with a distinctive crescent-shaped blade. The word tumi comes from Quechua and simply means "knife." These ceremonial objects symbolized power, divine authority, and healing. Ancient Andean cultures crafted them from precious metals, with gold representing the sun and divinity and silver representing the moon.

The figure at the top represents Naylamp (Naymlap), a legendary half-human, half-bird deity associated with the ancient Lambayeque culture of Peru. According to legend, Naylamp arrived from the sea and founded a powerful dynasty along the northern Peruvian coast.

Tumi knives were used by pre-Columbian cultures in sacred rituals and sacrifices, and some forms of these knives were also associated with medical procedures such as cranial trepanation.

This large, heavy pendant is crafted from solid 18k yellow gold, with wonderfully intricate hand-carved detailing. The deity wears an elaborate headdress, and the face, clothing, and ornamental elements are beautifully rendered. The crescent-shaped blade below provides a striking contrast to the intricate figure above.

A small attached bail accommodates your chain.

Condition note: The reverse of the pendant features an inset chrysocolla gemstone that is cracked and broken. Your jeweler could remove the damaged stone if you prefer. Please consider this condition issue when purchasing.

A fabulous and substantial piece of gold jewelry, this unusual pendant would be equally striking worn by a man or a woman. A wonderful treasure for lovers of ancient history, mythology, and distinctive artisan jewelry!