Whimsical Necklace with Six Native Charms [SOLD]

The six charms on this necklace represent examples of traditional craftsmanship of Zuni, Hopi and Navajo artists.

There is a vintage Navajo silver flower shape with a small turquoise set in the center. This charm was made in a small tufa mold, and then a sky-blue stone was added. It is a petit example of a traditional Navajo method of making jewelry.  In addition to the Navajo flower is an art-deco charm with a square stone, a Navajo bear paw with a turquoise stone set in a shadowbox, and a Navajo mother-in-law bell. The bell has small clapper that makes a tiny jingle.  The Navajo mother-in-law bell is worn by the mother-in-law to warn her son-in-law of her impending arrival. The Navajo believe that the two must not lay eyes on each other. 

The Zuni inlay butterfly is perfectly formed, with pieces of turquoise and shell forming wings. The delicate workmanship on this piece demonstrates the Zuni jeweler’s skill in  working with small pieces of stone to create exquisite works of adornment.  

The largest piece of the collection is a Hopi overlay drop. The overlay features  feather motifs, mountains and kiva steps.

Set as a group, this collection of charms is strung on a fine sterling silver chain.

Condition: All the charms are in excellent condition, they show the patina and wear that come with age.

Provenance: this Whimsical Necklace with Six Native Charms is from a jewelry collection in Albuquerque

Recommended Reading: Jewelry by Southwest American Indians: Evolving Designs by Nancy Schiffer