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Heirloom Jewelry Auction: Museum-Quality Navajo, Zuni & Santo Domingo Heirlooms Closed (#19788225)

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Floyd Becenti Jr. Navajo Pearl Necklace with Storyteller Kachina Pendant

  Lot # JO104
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Payment and pickup instructions will be available on your invoice (under "My Account") at the conclusion of this auction.
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Details
Lot # JO104
System ID # 19789788
End Date
Start Date
Description

Floyd Becenti Jr. Graduated Navajo Pearl Necklace with Storyteller Kachina Pendant

This vintage Navajo pearl necklace, showcasing the artistry of Floyd Becenti Jr., is a testament to the enduring heritage of Navajo silversmithing. Crafted with 44 meticulously stamped, bench-made sterling silver beads, each uniquely hand-finished, the necklace culminates in a striking Storyteller Kachina pendant. The pendant, symbolic of Navajo storytelling traditions, measures 5.13" x 2.16" and adds depth to this timeless piece.

Material: Sterling Silver (Marked)
Hallmarks: B.¢.T. - Floyd Becenti Jr.
Marks: Sterling

  • Storyteller Kachina Pendant

    • Size: 5.13" x 2.16"
    • Symbolism: The Storyteller Kachina is a revered figure, representing wisdom, culture, and the oral tradition central to Navajo and Hopi spirituality. This carefully crafted pendant captures the spirit of this figure, symbolizing the importance of heritage and the continuity of Navajo traditions.
  • Bench-Made Sterling Silver Beads

    • Quantity & Size: 44 beads, graduated from 11.5 mm to 18.4 mm
    • Details: Each bead is hand-stamped with intricate patterns, showcasing the labor-intensive process of creating Navajo pearls. The slight variations in each bead highlight their handcrafted authenticity, a signature of genuine Navajo craftsmanship.

Condition:

  • Overall: Good vintage condition with a rich, heavy patina that enhances its character.
  • Patina: The natural tarnishing adds depth, highlighting the detailed stampwork and enhancing the vintage appeal. We’ve left the polishing choice to the buyer, allowing them to maintain the piece's authentic, timeworn look.
  • Notable Detail: One bead has a minor dent, as shown in the final photos.

Versatility:
This piece offers flexibility in wear. With a minor reconfiguration, the Storyteller Kachina pendant could be made removable, allowing it to be worn as a standalone pendant or as a classic strand of Navajo pearls. This adaptability makes it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.


Size:

  • Total Weight: 118.6 g
  • Length: 22" Necklace (End to End)
  • Pendant Dimensions: 5.13" x 2.16"

About the Artist: Floyd Becenti Jr. 
Born in 1962 and remembered fondly following his passing in 2016, Floyd Becenti Jr. was a master Navajo silversmith renowned for his fine stampwork and cultural expression. His hallmark, B.C.T., is a signature of quality and authenticity, symbolizing his dedication to his heritage and his community. Becenti’s work continues to be celebrated for its intricate designs and profound cultural resonance, earning him a lasting place among collectors and admirers of Native American jewelry.

 

Our Commitment to You:
Customer Guarantee

At Mesilla Valley Estate Sales, we take pride in the authenticity and quality of each item we offer. Here's our commitment to you:

  1. Authenticity Assurance: We guarantee this item to be authentic, handpicked from pre-owned estate collections.
  2. Accurate Description: We guarantee that the type of metal, weight, and maker of each item are described accurately on our website. We ensure thorough verification of these specifics before listing.
  3. Review at Pickup: You will have the opportunity to review your item during the designated pickup time. We encourage you to inspect your purchase to confirm that it matches the description provided. Please note, once you leave the property with the item, it is considered yours.

Please Note:

  • Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
  • Treatment of colored stones, pearls, and other gemstones to enhance their appearance is common; these treatments may or may not be noted.

In the rare event of a typographical error in our listings, including gem descriptions and pricing, we reserve the right to correct such errors. If an item is sold based on incorrect information, we will provide a full refund to the buyer and adjust the product information accordingly.

Our guarantee aligns with our pickup policy, ensuring you have the opportunity to review your purchase at the designated pickup time and location. It's important to understand that once the item is picked up, the sale is final, and the item cannot be returned.

We believe that the jewelry you purchase will become cherished heirlooms, admired for generations.
Your satisfaction and trust in our offerings are paramount to us.