Kewa Petite Four-Strand Turquoise and Heishi Necklace

C4892B-necklace.jpg

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Jeweler Once Known
  • Category: Necklaces
  • Origin: KEWA, Santo Domingo Pueblo
  • Medium: heishe, turquoise, shell, cotton string
  • Size:
    25” necklace;
    13” hanging length;
    3” jacla
  • Item # C4892B
  • Price: $1750

This petite four-strand heishi necklace is a timeless piece of Pueblo jewelry. Possibly dating back to the 1920s, this unsigned necklace strung on cotton showcases the traditional design and craftsmanship of Pueblo artisans.

The necklace features four strands of tiny heishi beads, interspersed with fine nugget turquoise and shell beads. The variation in bead sizes adds visual interest to the piece. A pair of jacla, made of larger turquoise, shell, and coral beads, is attached to the necklace. Jacla, originally worn as earrings, are a classic addition to Pueblo necklaces.

This style of necklace has been worn by Pueblo men and women for centuries, making it a symbol of cultural heritage. Its simple, yet elegant, design is an artistic statement of Pueblo beadworkers.


Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Kewa Petite Four-Strand Turquoise and Heishi Necklace is from a jewelry collector in Denver

Recommended Reading: North American Indian Jewelry and Adornment - From Prehistory to the Present by Lois Dubin

TAGS: Southwest Indian JewelryKEWA, Santo Domingo Pueblonecklace

Cotton string is knotted.

Close up view of the jaclas portion of this necklace.

Jeweler Once Known
  • Category: Necklaces
  • Origin: KEWA, Santo Domingo Pueblo
  • Medium: heishe, turquoise, shell, cotton string
  • Size:
    25” necklace;
    13” hanging length;
    3” jacla
  • Item # C4892B
  • Price: $1750

C4892B-necklace.jpgC4892B-large.jpg Click on image to view larger.