Naja Pendant Value Guide

This mid-century Naja pendant is a quintessential example of Southwestern Native American artistry, likely originating as the centerpiece of a traditional squash blossom necklace. Crafted from sterling silver and set with numerous small turquoise stones, it represents the evolution of Navajo and Zuni silversmithing from the 1940s through the 1970s.

What Is Naja Pendant Worth?

The typical price range for Naja Pendant is $500 - $600 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The number and quality of the turquoise stones, specifically the vibrancy of the blue or green hues and the stability of the settings.
• The overall weight and gauge of the sterling silver used in the crescent construction.
• The provenance and era, with pieces from the 1940s-1970s 'Harvey House' or 'Old Pawn' styles commanding higher collector interest.
• Physical condition, including the presence of original patina and the absence of cracked or missing turquoise cabochons.

How to Identify Naja Pendant?

• Examine the reverse for characteristic hand-stamping or slight irregularities consistent with mid-century Navajo or Zuni benchwork.
• Verify the turquoise settings; authentic pieces from this era typically feature hand-cut stones with natural matrix variations rather than uniform synthetic plugs.
• Check the crescent shape for the 'Moorish' influence, ensuring the silver weight feels substantial and appropriate for sterling grade.
• Look for a 'sterling' mark or the absence of marks, as many authentic 1940s-1960s pieces were not hallmarked by the individual artist.

History of Naja Pendant

The naja, a crescent-shaped pendant, is a central element in Navajo and Zuni squash blossom necklaces. Originally a Moorish symbol brought to Spain, it was adopted by Native American silversmiths, particularly the Navajo, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It often symbolizes protection and good fortune. The squash blossom necklace itself is an iconic piece of Southwestern Native American jewelry, evolving from simple silver designs to elaborate settings featuring turquoise and other stones.