What is the meaning of the bear paw, it is on a great deal of jewelry. Thank you,

In Native American art, the use of the bear depicts a connection with the bear. Bears are revered for both their gentleness and fierceness. A mother bear would fight to protect her cubs, she could also be gentle and quiet. The mother bear was also as good a hunter as the Indians. The brown bear stands for courage, strength, protection and life.