Vintage Navajo Sterling Silver & Hubei Turquoise Bead Necklace – 28", 123.3g View Watchlist >
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Lot # JE180
System ID # 22268009
Start Date
End Date
11 Watching
Vintage Navajo Sterling Silver & Hubei Turquoise Bead Necklace – 28", 123.3g
This vintage Navajo turquoise and sterling silver necklace presents a substantial and visually compelling arrangement of 79 hand-shaped turquoise rondelle beads, each spaced by softly oxidized sterling silver saucer-shaped beads. Finished with a traditional hand-wrought Navajo hook-and-eye clasp, the piece demonstrates confident and intentional construction, reflective of long-standing techniques in Navajo beadwork.
The turquoise beads vary in hue from deep green to vivid blue, with complex matrixing in black, brown, and golden tones. Their matte finish, surface irregularities, and visible inclusions suggest minimal treatment—features commonly associated with Hubei turquoise, a source widely used by Navajo artisans in the mid-to-late 20th century. The silver spacer beads provide contrast and structure, visually anchoring the turquoise while enhancing the necklace's rhythmic flow.
Graduated bead sizing creates a natural drape, with larger rondelles centered and tapering in size toward the clasp. The combination of natural materials, intentional spacing, and traditional finishing techniques result in a necklace that feels grounded in tradition yet distinctively personal.
Condition:
This necklace is in good vintage condition, with signs of age and gentle wear consistent with its age and materials. Several turquoise beads show minor edge chips, surface abrasions, and natural inclusions, all of which are typical for minimally treated stones and add to the necklace’s authentic character. The sterling silver saucer-shaped spacer beads display an even, soft patina that complements the organic tones of the turquoise. The hand-wrought clasp is fully functional and closes securely, and the strand is structurally sound with no missing components or breaks.
Specifications & Dimensions:
- Total Length: 28" (71.12 cm)
- Bead Count: 79 turquoise rondelles
- Bead Size: Largest approx. 12.7 mm; smallest approx. 11.05 mm
- Weight: 123.3 grams
- Materials: Turquoise (appears to be Hubei), sterling silver (unmarked, tested)
- Clasp: Traditional Navajo hand-wrought hook and eye
Rich in character and steeped in Navajo jewelry tradition, this vintage turquoise and sterling silver necklace blends bold, natural materials with balanced design. Whether worn as a personal statement or added to a curated collection of Native American jewelry, it stands as a distinctive and timeless expression of Southwestern artistry.
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Please Note:
- Diamond and gemstone weights, colors, and clarity grades are approximate and determined while mounted.
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