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What is a breastplate?

The breastplate is a symbol of protection and wealth. The long bone “beads” used for the breastplate are called hairpipe. A breastplate constructed of hairpipe, leather, beads and various talismans are a common item of adornment for men and women of the plains tribes, from Canada to Mexico. This style breastplate is worn by men. Breastplates are still as popular today as when they first appeared in the mid 19th century. The breastplate is worn most often with full tribal regalia, during tribal dances and ceremonies.

Materials I used to create this Breastplate:

Golden Elk Hide: Used for neck and waist ties and also used for stringing beads.
Bone Hairpipe: 74 - 4 inch long white tubular beads, made from the bones of large animals. One hairpipe had a value of 4 to 6 hides, depending on the type of hide/fur.
Horn Hairpipe: 37 -1/2 inch long brown tubular beads, made from Elk horn
Fur Tails: 2 - 4 inch Black and white Ermine tails.
Shells: 2 Banded Crowie shell.
Claws: 2 Lynx Claws.
Various Beads:The Beads on the breastplate were often received from Europeans ( primarily French ) in exchange for furs. These beads are still made today in France and Czechoslovakia.
Crow beads:108 Large matte blue Czechoslovakian beads
Pony beads:110 Large dark green French beads
Trade beads:150+ Large and 20+ small antique French brass beads.
Tile beads:15+ Small blue antique Czechoslovakian beads
Overall dimensions:14 inches wide x 25 inches long