Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic Southwestern statement piece featuring a central Naja pendant and twelve stylized 'squash blossom' beads set with vibrant blue turquoise. The stones are secured in serrated bezels and accented with hand-stamped leaf and scroll silverwork, all strung on a double row of seamless silver bench beads.
Story
Spanish explorers brought the pomegranate motif to the Americas, which Navajo silversmiths transformed into the 'squash blossom.' By the 1970s, these necklaces became global icons of the American West's artistic soul.
Maker / Origin
While often unsigned, these pieces represent a communal tradition of Navajo (Diné) silversmithing passed down through generations. Makers often sourced turquoise from specific mines like Sleeping Beauty or Kingman, making each necklace a geological map of the Southwest.
Condition & Value
The necklace appears to be in excellent vintage condition with a desirable patina on the silver. The turquoise stones show consistent color, though one should check for hairline fractures in the stones which can occur over decades of wear. Well-preserved silver and intact stones maintain the higher end of the value range.
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.