Pilot Mountain Turquoise Navajo Squash Blossom Peterson Johnson
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SKU:00004NEMNJ11849
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At a Glance:
Squash blossom necklace by award-winning artisan Peterson Johnson
Turquoise cabochons consistent with Pilot Mountain material
Heavy-gauge sterling silver construction
Large-scale contemporary collector example
Necklace Features:
Necklace Specifications:
ABOUT THIS PIECE:
To create this squash blossom necklace, Navajo silversmith Peterson Johnson selected a remarkable suite of turquoise cabochons distinguished by an exquisite green-dominant palette. The stones move through layered tones of olive and moss with deeper forest hues and occasional flashes of lighter green and blue—traits most often associated with Pilot Mountain turquoise. Royston deposits can produce similar material, yet the color range and matrix pattern seen here align most closely with classic Pilot Mountain examples.
Expertly polished to highlight subtle variation, the stones bring depth and cohesion to the composition. Johnson’s disciplined silverwork—heavy-gauge construction, balanced proportions, and precise stone placement—honors established Navajo silversmithing traditions while presenting a confident contemporary statement. The result is substantial, culturally rooted, and visually compelling—an exceptional collector piece defined by material quality and craftsmanship.
ARTISAN NOTE:
Peterson Johnson (Navajo), born October 2, 1956, is the son of Alice Johnson and Wilson Johnson and began silversmithing in 1976. A self-taught artist known for traditional Navajo jewelry of exceptional precision and finish, he has received numerous awards throughout the Southwest and is respected among fellow silversmiths for his meticulous craftsmanship, earning him the nickname “The Machine.” His work was exhibited at the Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Arts & Crafts Show from 1994 to 1996 and has been carried by noted Southwestern galleries, including Palms Trading Company in Albuquerque. Today, his jewelry is sought by collectors for its disciplined construction, durability, and distinctive Peterson flair.
PERFECT FOR:
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1. All items in our inventory are pre-loved vintage pieces, and even those described as in “excellent” condition may display very minor imperfections from previous ownership. We make every effort to provide clear photos of any visible irregularity so you can make an informed decision before making your purchase.
Each product description page includes the item's vintage condition classification and a Condition Guide to help you understand the overall condition of the silverwork and stones. Please note:
2. The measurements are given as close approximations, and slight variations may occur.
3. Every photo represents the exact piece you’ll receive, shown in its actual color and condition. While the jewelry itself is never altered, backgrounds are edited to ensure a clean, consistent display.
4. Because screens display colors differently, the exact shade of a piece may vary slightly from one device to another. If you’re looking for a piece to match an item you already own, we suggest viewing the product's photos on multiple devices for the most accurate assessment of color and overtones.
5. At Silver Cactus Jewelry, we are committed to honoring cultural integrity and accurately representing Indigenous art in accordance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. We carefully describe each piece in good faith, with complete transparency regarding signed or unsigned status, available provenance, and expert opinion. Attributions to specific artists or tribes are based on expert evaluation but are not guaranteed. Buyers are encouraged to make their own evaluations before purchase.
6. All jewelry is sold as-is. Buyers are responsible for ensuring compatibility with personal sensitivities (e.g., metal allergies).
7. Silver Cactus Jewelry’s liability is limited to the purchase price of the item. No additional warranties are expressed or implied.
Our Approach to Provenance
Every vintage piece carries a story that begins with its maker. Some are clearly signed and dated; others show only a softened hallmark, a sterling/.925 stamp, the place of production or tribal indicator
—and some bear no markings at all.
Evaluation of Unsigned, Unclear, or Unknown Marks
Pre-loved vintage jewelry rarely includes formal documentation. When hallmarks are unclear or missing, we look to the piece itself for insight into provenance and authenticity. Our evaluation may include:
Attribution & Provenance Disclosure
Each piece is described in good faith and with careful attention to accuracy. We provide full transparency regarding whether a piece is signed or unsigned, any known or available provenance, and our informed professional assessment at the time of listing.
Attributions to specific artists, tribes, or mines are based on stylistic analysis, materials, construction techniques, historical context, and available reference material. In cases where hallmarks are unclear, partial, or absent, even recognized experts may reasonably differ in their conclusions. For this reason, all attributions should be understood as informed opinions rather than absolute guarantees.
Native American jewelry is a living tradition, and the learning process never truly ends. Our understanding continues to evolve through ongoing research and the exchange of knowledge with fellow collectors, scholars, artisans, and informed clients. This ongoing dialogue helps preserve accuracy, context, and integrity—ensuring we remain a trusted source of information rather than presenting any single interpretation as final.
Collectors who value this shared approach to learning are invited to join the Collectors Circle, where we exchange newly uncovered information, historical insights, and evolving perspectives on materials, makers, and regional traditions. This collaborative environment allows knowledge to grow responsibly and ensures that both collectors and researchers benefit from continued discovery.
We encourage collectors and enthusiasts to conduct their own independent evaluation prior to purchase. For a detailed explanation of our methodology, limitations, and guarantees, please refer to our Terms of Service.
For general questions, you may contact us at info@silvercactusjewelry.com.
A Word About Our Insurance Tag
Silver Cactus Jewelry pieces are vintage and one of a kind—often irreplaceable. To honor their history and protect your investment, each item is carefully inspected and secured with an Insurance Tag, ensuring it arrives as represented.
🛡️ Why the Insurance Tag Matters
⚠️ Important: Removing the Insurance Tag terminates the insurance and voids the return policy.
This safeguard preserves the integrity of rare collectibles while reinforcing our commitment to excellence and a client experience that meets or exceeds expectations. For detailed information about our insurance policy, please view our Terms of Service.
Once you are satisfied with your purchase, or after the return period has concluded, you may remove the Insurance Tag. In the unlikely event that any minor adhesive residue remains, a moist pad and jeweler’s cloth are included for gentle cleaning and light polishing.
For questions about your order, please contact us at support@silvercactusjewelry.com.
For Return Authorizations (RAs) or questions about returns, please review our Return Policy and contact us at returns@silvercactusjewelry.com.
For general questions, you can reach us at info@silvercactusjewelry.com.

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