Native American Fine Art and Jewelry

Zuni Vintage Turquoise, Coral, Shell, Jet, and Jasper Heishi Necklace with Pendant

$225

Artist: Unsigned
Style: Heishi Necklace with Pendant
Pueblo: Zuni
Period: Vintage (1960-1990)
Materials: Turquoise, Coral, Shell, Jet, and Jasper
Length: 24″
Item: #5032

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In stock

Description

Artist: Unsigned
Style: Heishi Necklace with Pendant
Pueblo: Zuni
Period: Vintage (1960-1990)
Materials: Turquoise, Coral, Shell, Jet, and Jasper
Length: 24″
Item: #5032

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

Embrace the timeless elegance of mid-century Southwestern craftsmanship with this striking vintage Zuni necklace. This piece beautifully marries two iconic Native American lapidary techniques: a hand-strung heishi bead necklace and a masterfully crafted multistone mosaic inlay pendant.

The focal point of this necklace is a striking, geometric triangular pendant. True to the exacting standards of traditional Zuni lapidary work, the pendant features seamless block inlay, bringing together a vibrant, earth-toned palette of premium natural materials. The design elegantly bands together natural turquoise, red coral, white shell, and earthy green jasper, all precisely cut to fit perfectly together without silver channel dividers.

The pendant is suspended from a substantial, classic heishi necklace. The graduated disc beads—hand-cut from shell and natural stones—range from deep, rich browns to creamy whites and soft greens, perfectly complementing the colors within the inlay pendant.

Details:

  • Authentic Vintage Zuni Craftsmanship
  • Features seamless multistone mosaic inlay
  • Hand-cut graduated heishi beads
  • Premium natural stones including turquoise, coral, and jasper

Collector’s Note: A beautiful, wearable example of mid-century Zuni stone-cutting precision and earthy, organic design.

About the Pueblo

The Zuni Pueblo, located in western New Mexico, is known for its rich cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship, particularly in jewelry making. The Zuni people have a long history of creating intricate and distinctive jewelry, using materials like turquoise, coral, shell, jet, and silver. Their jewelry designs often reflect their deep connection to nature, spirituality, and their cultural traditions.
One of the most notable styles of Zuni jewelry is the multistone inlay technique, where small stones are meticulously fitted together to form intricate patterns, such as animals, flowers, and geometric shapes. Zuni silversmiths are also known for their precision in creating pieces such as turquoise and coral necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, often featuring symbolic motifs tied to Zuni cosmology and beliefs.
Zuni jewelry is highly regarded for its craftsmanship and beauty, with each piece representing the artist’s skill and cultural identity. It continues to be a treasured art form, passed down through generations.