1950s Navajo Sterling Silver Squash Blossom Necklace | Kingman Turquoise | 20"

This classic 1950s-era Navajo squash blossom necklace is a timeless statement of Southwestern artistry, featuring 15 vivid blue turquoise cabochons—likely sourced from the renowned Kingman mine in Arizona—set in finely handcrafted sterling silver. With its balanced form and traditional materials, the piece reflects the enduring aesthetic of mid-20th century Native American jewelry.

Eight silver blossoms curve along the neckline, each holding a pear-shaped turquoise cabochon framed in rope-style bezels. At the center hangs a graceful 2-inch naja pendant, a symbol deeply rooted in Navajo jewelry tradition, adorned with seven graduated turquoise stones. The deep blue tones of the stones, highlighted by natural matrix patterns, are highly characteristic of Kingman turquoise—a prized source for Navajo silversmiths throughout the 20th century.

This piece is strung with 74 bench-made silver beads (6.5 mm diameter), a hallmark of vintage craftsmanship, and finished with a traditional hook clasp. With its refined proportions and historical authenticity, it is both collectible and eminently wearable.

Provenance & Turquoise Attribution:
The turquoise in this necklace displays rich, saturated blue hues with subtle matrix, consistent with turquoise mined from the Kingman district of northwestern Arizona. Kingman turquoise has been favored by Navajo silversmiths since the early 1900s and was especially prevalent during the 1940s–1970s. Known for its beautiful color range—from sky blue to deeper royal tones—Kingman remains one of the most collectible American turquoise types. 

Details:

• Tribe: Navajo
• Era: Circa 1950s
• Stone: Natural turquoise (15 total), attributed to Kingman mine
  • Smallest: Approx. 10.62 mm
  • Largest: Approx. 14.56 mm
• Metal: Sterling silver (tested)
• Bench Beads: 74 total, approx. 6.50 mm diameter
• Blossoms: 8 squash blossom stations, each approx. 1/2" x 1 1/2" (1.27 cm x 3.81 cm)
• Naja Pendant Drop: 2" (5.08 cm)
• Closure: Traditional hook clasp
• Total Length: 20"
• Weight: 63.9 grams (2.25 oz)
• Markings: Unsigned, unmarked (typical of the era)

Condition:
Good vintage condition. The silver has been tested and retains a natural, untouched patina. Stones are all secure in their bezels with no cracks or losses. Surface wear and tarnish are present, consistent with age and authenticity. No signs of repair. Polishing has been left to the discretion of the buyer.