Products

At a Glance:

Vintage Native American squash blossom necklace
Turquoise cluster work consistent with Zuni production
Hand-fabricated sterling silver construction
Unsigned post-Harvey Era production
Strong mid-century collector example

Necklace Features:

• .925 sterling silver
• Turquoise in petit point, needlepoint, and snake-eyes (round cuts)
• Hand-fabricated beads strung on traditional foxtail chain
  
• Period wire hook-and-eye closure
  
• Circa 1950s - 1960s
• Condition: Very Fine — see SCJ Vintage Condition Guide

Necklace Specifications: 

• Wear scale: moderate matinee presence per SCJ size guide, rendered in a refined mid-century scale
• Naja pendant: 2" x 2"
  
• Blossom length: approx. 1"
• Bead diameter: 7-8 mm
• Total length (including clasp): 25 7/8" 
• Weight: 81.1 grams

ABOUT THIS PIECE:

This elaborate vintage squash blossom necklace presents the refined look collectors associate with mid-century Southwest silverwork. The four-petaled blossoms, restrained proportions, and balanced placement of stone and silver support a mid-century attribution. Masterfully cut into clusters of petit point, needlepoint, and round elements, the blue turquoise cabochons—with minimal matrix and subtle shade variation—create a dimensional, mosaic-like composition.

The necklace is consistent with the mature mid-century period of Zuni petit point and cluster jewelry. Handmade two-piece silver beads, carefully calibrated turquoise stones, and layered cluster construction are all characteristic of workshop production from that era, when fabrication remained fully handmade despite increasing refinement. Based on these construction features, the piece most likely dates to the 1950-60s. Matched cuts, even bezels, and the steady rhythm from the naja through each blossom unify the necklace while still highlighting each handmade component. The carefully assembled strand of beads on foxtail chain serves as a traditional backdrop for the stonework.

Each small, tightly fitted part of the ensemble required sustained lapidary and silverwork control, lending the piece a more delicate, labor-intensive character than the broader proportions that became more common later in the century.

PERFECT FOR:

• Collectors of vintage Zuni jewelry
• Admirers of traditional petit point and needlepoint work
• Those seeking squash blossom necklaces with balanced scale
• Southwestern and heritage-focused styling
• Pairing with other mid-century turquoise pieces

✨ Collectors Circle members receive a welcome offer on their first purchase.