Rattles and shakers are used in most Native American music. Some use the rattles to accompany the rhythm of Native Indian drums. You will find many styles of rattles and shakers to choose from, such as; turtle shell rattles, gourd rattles, rawhide shakers, and even drum rattles. Any hand crafted rattle will be an excellent choice for personal meditation or for ceremonial purposes.
Native American rattles are usually made with unique materials that may include feathers, antlers, shells, seeds, bones, and bead work as well as fur, fringe, leather, and rawhide. Each unique item, like using the red eared turtle shell, are of great importance and chosen with special care. The rattle has become a Native American symbol for music, medicine, dance and spirituality.
You will find that some of the hand crafted rattles have been painted for additional decorations. There are even gourd rattles that have artwork etched into them. The rattle and shaker will have unique displays of Native American symbols between southwest Indian tribes and western tribes. However, all are a Native symbol of the American Indian culture. I know that you will enjoy using and hearing handcrafted rattles and shakers during your ceremonies or rituals.
