Native American Smudge Feather Fan

Handcrafted by a registered member of the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona, this Smudging Feather Fan / Wand is made from a self-harvested Saguaro Cactus Rib, adorned with genuine Kingman Turquoise, natural Turkey & Woodpecker feathers, and genuine leather.

Total Size: 15” X 5” X 1.5"

This Smudging Feather Fan/Wand is created from a Saguaro Cactus Rib harvested on the Gila River Indian Reservation, south of Phoenix Arizona, the Land of the Ancient Hohokam. Hand-carved, detailed with authentic Kingman Turquoise, and finished with genuine leather and real Turkey and Woodpecker feathers, it includes a large (free) Pima Sage smudge stick.

About Smudging Feather Fans

Smudging feather fans are traditionally used in Native American and other indigenous ceremonies to help cleanse and purify energy, spaces, and individuals. The fan is used to gently guide the smoke from sacred herbs, like sage or cedar, over a person, space, or object, allowing the smoke to carry away negativity and bring in positive energy. To use, light your smudge stick until it smolders, creating smoke, then wave the fan to direct the smoke with intention, focusing on areas that need purification or renewal.

About the Saguaro Rib

Metaphysically, Saguaro ribs represent endurance, resilience, and wisdom from the natural cycles of life. They embody the strength to withstand harsh conditions and the ability to grow and thrive over time, reflecting a balance between survival and spiritual grounding. The Saguaro’s long life span, often surviving hundreds of years, symbolizes ancient knowledge and the nurturing of deep roots in spiritual practices. Using Saguaro in smudging rituals connects us to this wisdom, providing grounding energy and resilience to release and protect against negative forces.

The handle of this fan is made from a Saguaro Cactus Rib, which is over 600 years old. Harvested by the creator Joseph M Perez, a descendant of the Hohokam and a registered member of the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC #013249), this rib was collected from wild Saguaros on the Gila River Reservation. These cacti often meet their end during summer monsoon storms when struck by lightning. After natural decay over time, their ribs can be carefully gathered. As a federally protected species, Saguaro ribs can only be harvested by Native Americans on sovereign, aboriginal land. This wand was crafted on the sacred land of the Ancient Hohokam, just south of Phoenix, AZ. The Hohokam are known as master astrologers and farmers, and their mysterious disappearance has led to legends that they returned to the stars, their place of origin.

About the Turquoise

Authentic Kingman Turquoise from Arizona, known as the “Sky Stone,” represents blessings, protection, good health, and long life. Legend tells of Native tears of joy merging with rain and Earth to create this sacred stone. Turquoise is said to heal the spirit, promote independence, and bring wisdom. It’s considered a bridge between Father Sky and Mother Earth, holding protective qualities and attracting love and romance. Hold this stone while smudging and welcome positivity and love into your life.

About the Feathers

Feathers hold deep significance in Native American culture, symbolizing trust, honor, strength, wisdom, power, and freedom. Turkey feathers symbolize pride, abundance, growth, and protection, while Woodpecker feathers represent the heartbeat of Mother Earth, embodying cycles of renewal and success. Use this fan to clear away negativity and invite positive energy.

Legal Disclosure:

Saguaros are a protected species, and harvesting them is typically prohibited. However, as members of the Gila River Indian Community, Joseph legally harvests these Saguaro ribs on Sovereign Land. Each piece is created in compliance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act, ensuring authenticity and respect for all Federal, State, and Tribal laws.