Navajo — Kingman Turquoise & Sterling Silver Squash Blossom, c. 1960s–70s, 18"

Hand-fabricated Navajo (Diné) squash blossom necklace set with natural Kingman turquoise—sky-bright blues with attractive matrix—framed in hand-twisted rope bezels. Eight trumpet blossoms lead to a crescent naja, creating a balanced, wearable profile with classic Southwestern presence.

Details

• Origin: Navajo (Diné), unsigned
• Materials: Sterling silver; natural Kingman turquoise
• Components: 8 trumpet blossoms; crescent naja
• Beads: 74 bench-made (“Navajo pearls”), ~6.32 mm
• Clasp / Stringing: Traditional hook clasp; strung on wire
• Settings: Hand-cut bezels with twisted-rope edging; solid backplates
• Era: Mid-20th century, c. 1960s–70s
• Hallmarks: None observed

Dimensions & Specifications

• Overall length: 18 in (45.72 cm)
• Center drop (to top of naja): ~2 in (5.08 cm)
• Naja (H × W × D): 2.05 × 2.24 × 0.23 in (5.21 × 5.69 × 0.58 cm)
• Blossoms, each (L × W × D): 1.31 × 0.58 × 0.24 in (3.33 × 1.47 × 0.61 cm)
• Bead diameter: 6.32 mm (~0.25 in)
• Largest stone (L × W): 18.21 × 12.88 mm
• Smallest stone (L × W): 12.03 × 8.20 mm
• Weight: 71.78 g (≈2.53 oz)

Condition

Good vintage condition with stones secure in their settings. Light, age-appropriate surface wear; attractive original patina unpolished—polishing left to the buyer.

Collector’s Notes (Learn as you look)

• Why “squash blossom”? The flared “trumpets” echo floral forms popularized in 19th-century Southwest ornament; in Navajo jewelry, they became a signature handwrought element.
• The crescent naja: A centuries-old crescent motif brought to the Southwest via Spanish bridle ornaments; now a hallmark of Navajo necklace design.
• Kingman turquoise: From Arizona’s Mineral Park District, prized for vivid sky-blue color and matrix ranging from chocolate to inky black—well represented here.
• Bench beads (“Navajo pearls”): Handmade silver beads formed, soldered, and polished individually—look for the delicate seam line and gentle variation that machine beads lack.

Notes

Authenticity guaranteed. Certificate of Authenticity available upon request.

Conclusion

A beautifully balanced, mid-century Navajo squash blossom—Kingman blue at its best, traditional handwork throughout, and a versatile 18" length—equally compelling for daily wear and for a discerning Southwestern collection.

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.