Zuni Petit Point Squash Blossom Turquoise Necklace, Mid-20th-Century
Skip to content
Explore New Arrivals, including vintage bear claw pieces
Collectors Circle Benefits
For Our Guests
Shipping & Returns
SKU:00011NEMNJ11678
Couldn't load pickup availability
At a Glance:
Vintage Native American squash blossom necklace
Classic Zuni turquoise cluster
Hand-fabricated silverwork
Unsigned post-Harvey Era production
Strong mid-20th-century collector example
Necklace Features:
Necklace Specifications:
ABOUT THIS PIECE:
This elaborate Native American squash blossom necklace presents the refined look collectors expect from mid-century classics. The four-petaled blossoms, restrained proportions, and balanced placement of stone and silver support this period attribution. Masterfully cut into clusters of petit point, needlepoint (slightly fuller profile), and round elements, the blue turquoise cabochons— with minimal matrix and subtle shade variation—create a dimensional, mosaic-like composition.
The necklace reflects the mature period of Zuni petit-point cluster jewelry. Handmade two-piece silver beads, carefully calibrated turquoise stones, and layered cluster construction are characteristic of mid-century Zuni silversmithing, when workshop production had become highly refined while still relying entirely on hand fabrication. Based on these construction features, the piece most likely dates to the 1950s–early 1960s. 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 compared with the bolder proportions that became common in the following decade.
PERFECT FOR:
✨ Collector’s Circle members receive a welcome offer on their first purchase.
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.

info@silvercactusjewelry.com
(702) 625-2821
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm PT