Navajo Silver and Turquoise Squash Blossom Necklace with Naja by Jimmy Long

Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Jimmy Long is known for his turquoise and silver jewelry. This vintage squash blossom necklace crafted in the 1960s showcases exquisite craftsmanship and stunning all-natural turquoise gemstones. The turquoise, likely sourced from Blue Diamond Turquoise mines in Nevada, varies in shape and highlights the unique beauty of each stone.

The necklace features 14 traditional squash blossoms, each adorned with a single turquoise gemstone set securely in a hand-crafted silver bezel. These blossoms are elegantly spaced along a sturdy double strand of polished silver beads, providing a classic and balanced design.

At the centerpiece of the necklace is the naja, a crescent-shaped pendant that is symbolic in Navajo jewelry. This naja is meticulously constructed from silver sheet and further enhanced with fine wirework. It is adorned with six turquoise gemstones, echoing the natural beauty and harmony seen throughout the necklace.

Diné of the Navajo Nation artist Jimmy Long (Jim Long) is known for his turquoise and silver jewelry. He is the husband of Helen Long and father of Phillip Long and Tom Long. He signs his work with stamps of J, JL, a bar with vertical arcs with rays.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Navajo Silver and Turquoise Squash Blossom Necklace with Naja by Jimmy Long is from a Santa Fe family, purchased in the 1970s.  

Recommended Reading: Navajo Jewelry: A Legacy of Silver and Stone by Lois Jacka

Reference: American Indian Jewelry II: A-L, 1,800 Artist Biographies by Gregory and Angie Yan Schaaf.

Identification and date of this piece by nephew Audie Yazzie.

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo, Necklace, Jimmy Long