Native American Fine Art and Jewelry

Navajo Necklace with Ancient French/African Trade Beads and Hand Cast Ethiopian Coptic Cross

$395

Artist: Unknown
Style: Necklace with Pendant
Pueblo: Navajo (Diné)
Period: Beads are Primitive (1919 & Earlier). Date it was assembled is unknown.
Materials: French/African Trade Beads and a Brass Coptic Cross
Length: 26,5″
Item #3096

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In stock

Description

Artist: Unknown
Style: Necklace with Pendant
Pueblo: Navajo (Diné)
Period: Beads are Primitive (1919 & Earlier). Date it was assembled is unknown.
Materials: French/African Trade Beads and a Brass Coptic Cross
Length: 26,5″
Item #3096

Traditional handmade Native American Indian Jewelry from Indigenous Pueblos of the Southwest. Guaranteed authentic. Good condition.

The striking centerpiece of this necklace is a vintage Ethiopian Coptic cross. Traditionally crafted using the ancient lost-wax casting method, every cross is entirely unique. This particular pendant features intricate, hand-tooled geometric patterns that beautifully reflect its East African heritage.

Complementing the brass-toned cross is a vibrant, highly collectible strand of Ancient African Trade Beads. These glass beads were historically traded extensively throughout the African continent. The colorful sequence features highly sought-after Venetian Chevron beads—identifiable by their distinct blue, white, and red zigzag layers—alongside vibrant yellow “padre” beads, multicolored striped wound glass, and earthy, elongated tubular beads.

This necklace brilliantly unites centuries-old European glassmaking with traditional African metalwork. It is a spectacular find for collectors of ethnographic jewelry, antique trade beads, or anyone seeking a truly unique, conversation-starting centerpiece for their wardrobe.

About the Pueblo

The Navajo Pueblo, or Navajo Nation, is one of the largest Native American tribes, located in the Southwest U.S. across parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado. The Navajo, or Diné, have a rich cultural heritage, with traditions rooted in weaving, pottery, and silver jewelry. Their society is matrilineal, tracing lineage through the mother’s side. Traditionally, they lived in hogans, dome-shaped homes built from natural materials. The Navajo maintain strong spiritual beliefs focused on balance and harmony. Today, the Navajo Nation remains a vibrant community, preserving its language, traditions, and cultural identity.