This Orca brooch is hand-carved by the Haida Master Carver Ron Russ. The brooch has been carved from yew wood and has 7 abalone inlays in total.
The Orca or Killer Whale symbolizes family, romance, longevity, harmony, travel, community and protection. He is said to protect those who travel away from home, and to lead them back when the time comes. Orcas will often stay their whole life with the same pod and raise each calf with care.
Find more information about and examples of Northwest Coast First Nations symbol.
The brooch measures approximately 3 1/8 inches or 8 centimeters wide, 2 1/2 inches or 6 1/2 centimeters wide, and nearly 1/2 of an inch or 1 1/4 centimeters thick.