Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic Southwestern statement piece featuring vibrant turquoise cabochons set in saw-tooth bezels, accented by hand-stamped silver leaf appliqués. The necklace is strung on a double strand of seamless sterling silver bench beads, culminating in a traditional cast naja pendant with a suspended central drop.
Story
Spanish explorers brought crescent-shaped horse ornaments to the Southwest, which Navajo silversmiths transformed into the iconic 'naja' pendant. By the 1970s, these necklaces became global symbols of American wearable art.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece represents the highly skilled, generational silversmithing traditions of the Navajo (Diné) people. Silversmiths in the mid-to-late 20th century combined ancestral sand-casting and hand-stamping techniques with commercial sterling silver wire and beads to meet the booming post-war demand for Southwestern jewelry.
Condition & Value
The necklace appears to be in excellent vintage condition with a beautiful, natural patina on the silver. The turquoise cabochons show no visible cracks or chips, and the stringing appears secure. Preserving the original dark patina in the recessed areas of the silver is crucial to maintaining its vintage value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.