Overview
A classic, substantial Southwestern squash blossom necklace featuring vibrant, matrix-rich turquoise cabochons set in hand-stamped sterling silver bezels. The necklace is anchored by a traditional sandcast-style naja pendant with leaf-and-tendril silverwork, flanked by ten stylized squash blossom beads on a double strand of hand-soldered silver bench beads.
Story
Rooted in the late 19th century, Navajo silversmiths adapted the crescent 'naja' from Spanish horse bridles and Moorish amulets. This specific design flourished in the 1970s during a massive national boom in Southwestern Native art.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece represents the highly skilled, communal tradition of Diné (Navajo) silversmiths. These artisans combined Spanish design influences with their own spiritual connection to turquoise, which represents sky, water, and protection, passing these complex metalworking techniques down through generations.
Condition & Value
The necklace appears to be in excellent vintage condition with a beautiful, natural dark patina in the silver crevices that highlights the stampwork. The turquoise cabochons seem secure in their bezels without visible cracks, though a close physical inspection is needed to check for stabilization or minor chips.