Ten-strand Petit Coral and Turquoise Necklace [SOLD]

The coral beads and turquoise heishi in this necklace are the most petit individual gemstones imaginable. Very small sections of natural-shaped coral are randomly highlighted with petit heishi in groups of three. The ten strands are finished off at the ends with silver cones and clasp. Each silver cone is curved slightly at the ends to better conform to the curve of the neck. Each silver cone is stamped Sterling, but there is no indication of the maker of the necklace.

Today, high quality coral is extremely rare. Demand from Chinese consumers and over harvesting have led to scarcity of the popular jewelry element. One of the most desired components of Southwestern jewelry, coral is technically not a stone: it is the skeletal remains of a sea animal that lives in warm waters. Navajo and Pueblo jewelers were first introduced to coral by the early Spanish traders who had obtained it from Mediterranean fishermen off the coast of Spain. Fascinated by the deep color, silversmiths began integrating coral into their jewelry.

Talented native artists began to use coral in new, innovative styles in the mid-twentieth century. This necklace is composed of branch coral left in its natural shape. Each coral was cut to the desired length, drilled to be strung, and polished to a beautiful sheen.

We have selected the artist to be a Diné of the Navajo Nation, based on the silver ends. Most Pueblo jewelers and lapidary artisans would have tied off the ends in what is known as a pueblo wrap. The use of silver is more a trait of Diné artisans of the Navajo Nation.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this Ten-strand Petit Coral and Turquoise Necklace is from the collection of a gallery client

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

TAGS: Southwest Indian Jewelry, Navajo, necklace