Medicine Wheel Beaded Medallion Necklace

This is a circular beaded medallion necklace featuring the Indigenous Medicine Wheel symbol, characterized by its four quadrants of red, yellow, white, and black seed beads. Superimposed over the center are two stylized eagle feathers rendered in black and white beadwork. The piece is constructed using the loom-weave or applique technique with uniform glass seed beads. A decorative picot edge border in alternating red and black beads circles the perimeter, adding a finished texture. The medallion is suspended from a wide, cream-colored tan buckskin or suede leather neck strap, which appears to be hand-cut. The craftsman-ship exhibits tight, consistent tension and precise alignment of the beadwork, indicating skilled handworking. While the specific tribe is not identified, the color scheme and feather iconography are widely used across various North American Plains and Woodland cultures. The condition appears modern and excellent, showing no missing beads, clean leather, and vibrant color saturation. It lacks visible maker's marks or stamps, which is common for contemporary artisanal or regalia pieces. The scale suggests it is designed as a prominent chest piece for cultural gatherings or powwows.